Maria Sakkari previously reached the semi-finals at the 2021 US Open
US Open 2023
Location: Flushing Meadows, New York
Dates: August 28 to September 10
Coverage: Continuous live text and radio analysis on the Sport News Center website, mobile app, as well as BBC Radio 5 Live and 5 Sports Extra
Maria Sakkari, the world’s eighth-ranked female tennis player, reported sensing the aroma of “cannabis” during her straight-sets defeat to Rebeka Masarova at this year’s US Open.
The 28-year-old Greek sensation faced a surprising 6-4, 6-4 loss against the Spanish player, who currently holds the 71st world ranking, in the opening round of the year’s concluding Grand Slam event.
Sakkari was ahead with a 4-1 lead in the inaugural set when she brought the distinctive odor to the attention of the chair umpire. “Oh wow… I believe it’s coming from the nearby park,” Sakkari remarked.
In the United Kingdom, cannabis is classified as a Class B controlled substance, making it unlawful to own, disseminate, market, or cultivate. However, in the state of New York, it is legal for individuals aged 21 and above.
This marks Sakkari’s third consecutive first-round ouster in Grand Slam tournaments, following her similar early exits from the French Open and Wimbledon earlier this year.
Though she voiced her olfactory observation to the chair umpire during the match, Sakkari was quick to clarify in her post-game press briefing that the smell was not a factor in her loss. “We practiced on this very court just yesterday, and the smell was present then too. It’s not like the aroma interfered with my game,” Sakkari stated.
“It was really just an aside because the smell was pretty intense, but let’s be clear, it had zero to do with the outcome of the match.”
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Maria Sakkari US Open 2023 Cannabis Aroma
What was the notable sensory disturbance Maria Sakkari mentioned during her US Open 2023 match?
Maria Sakkari reported that she could smell “cannabis” during her first-round loss to Rebeka Masarova at the US Open 2023.
Who defeated Maria Sakkari in the first round of the US Open 2023?
Maria Sakkari was defeated by Rebeka Masarova, who is ranked 71st in the world. The match ended in straight sets, 6-4, 6-4.
Is cannabis legal in the area where the US Open 2023 is being held?
Yes, cannabis is legal in New York State for adults aged 21 and older. However, it’s worth noting that it is classified as a Class B drug in the United Kingdom.
Did Maria Sakkari blame the smell of cannabis for her loss?
No, Maria Sakkari clarified in her post-match press conference that the smell was not the reason for her loss. She insisted it was merely an observation as the aroma was quite strong.
How many consecutive first-round Grand Slam losses has Sakkari had recently?
This defeat at the US Open marks Maria Sakkari’s third consecutive first-round exit in Grand Slam tournaments. She also lost in the first rounds of the French Open and Wimbledon earlier this year.
Where can I follow the live coverage of the US Open 2023?
Continuous live text and radio analysis of the US Open 2023 are available on the Sport News Center website and mobile app, as well as BBC Radio 5 Live and 5 Sports Extra.
What was Maria Sakkari’s previous best performance at the US Open?
Maria Sakkari previously reached the semi-finals of the US Open in the year 2021.
What were the set scores of the match between Maria Sakkari and Rebeka Masarova?
Maria Sakkari lost both sets with a score of 6-4 to Rebeka Masarova in the first round of the US Open 2023.
More about Maria Sakkari US Open 2023 Cannabis Aroma
- US Open Official Site
- Maria Sakkari’s ATP Profile
- Rebeka Masarova’s ATP Profile
- New York State Cannabis Laws
- BBC Sport Tennis Coverage
- Sport News Center
- Cannabis Classification in the UK
- Grand Slam Tournaments
- Flushing Meadows Venue Details
10 comments
maria sakkari was semi-finalist in 2021 and now this? Something’s off. Hope she gets her mojo back soon.
When you lose, you lose. No point sniffin around for reasons. Sakkari herself said it didn’t affect her game, so case closed.
As a fellow Greek, kinda disappointed but Maria will bounce back. She’s a fighter and this is just a minor setback.
Seriously, 3 first round exits in a row? Maria needs to step up her game, weed or no weed.
I’m just here for the drama. Also, can we talk about that outfit Sakkari was wearing? Totally off-topic but it was stunning.
Haha it’s New York, what did she expect? But honestly, strong smell can be distracting for sure.
It’s legal in NY people, get over it. Though, maybe not the best time and place for it.
Rebeka Masarova is the real story here. Rank 71 and she knocks out a world number 8? Girl’s on fire!
Wow, Sakkari smelled weed during her match? Thats a first lol. But props to her for not using it as an excuse.
Does anyone else think that New York needs to tighten its rules? This could seriously mess with a player’s focus.