From whispers in locker rooms to front-page headlines, the relationship between athletes and cannabis has been a rollercoaster ride of scandal, stigma, and, more recently, acceptance. In the past several years, high-profile incidents involving famous athletes and cannabis have sparked heated debates — putting a spotlight on cannabis use in sports.
As more athletes speak out and share their stories, the tide is surely turning. The once-taboo topic is now being embraced by many, with new research and shifting policies paving the way for a more accepting attitude. In this blog, we’ll take a look at how perceptions have changed, the impact on athletes’ lives, and what the future holds.
Throwing It Back: The History of Cannabis in Sports
Let’s rewind a bit and take a look at the early days of cannabis in sports. Back in the day, the idea of athletes using cannabis was met with raised eyebrows and stern disapproval. The mere mention of marijuana in connection with sports was enough to cause a scandal.
Early views on cannabis were shaped by a combination of misinformation, fear, and the infamous “War on Drugs.” This widespread concern led to strict regulations and outright bans on cannabis use across the sports world. Athletes caught using it faced severe consequences, from suspensions to revoked accolades and tarnished reputations.
Regulatory bodies were quick to jump on the anti-cannabis bandwagon, implementing stringent rules to keep the plant far away from professional sports. These initial bans were driven by a mix of health concerns, moral judgments, and the prevailing anti-drug sentiment of the times. However, as research and public opinion evolve, these early restrictions are giving way to more informed and compassionate policies.
Famous Cannabis Scandals in Sports
While we’re taking a look back, let’s get into some of the most famous cannabis scandals that changed the history of sports.
Michael Phelps
Swimming legend Michael Phelps found himself in hot water in 2009 when a photo of him hitting a bong at a party surfaced. The media went into a frenzy, and public opinion was split. Some were quick to condemn, while others rallied behind him, arguing that he was just another young adult enjoying his time off.
Despite the backlash, his massive sponsorship losses, and a three-month suspension from USA Swimming, Phelps managed to bounce back. The incident didn’t tarnish his legacy; instead, it sparked a broader conversation about cannabis use and athletes, highlighting the need for a more nuanced approach to cannabis policies in sports.
Sha’Carri Richardson
Fast forward to 2021, and we have the case of Sha’Carri Richardson. The rising track star tested positive for THC just weeks before the Tokyo Olympics. Her suspension and subsequent disqualification from the Games ignited a heated debate. The media and public reactions were intense, with many arguing that the rules were outdated and unfair.
Richardson’s situation highlighted the evolving attitudes toward cannabis use in sports. Her story became a rallying cry for advocates pushing for change, emphasizing the need to reevaluate how cannabis is perceived and regulated in the athletic world.
Brittney Griner
Brittney Griner’s cannabis story took the conversation to a global stage. In 2022, the basketball star was arrested and detained in Russia for carrying cannabis oil in her luggage. She was sentenced to 9 years in prison, but she was traded for a Russian arms dealer, relatively shortening her stay in Russian jail to 293 days. The media coverage was extensive, and her arrest drew international attention. Many viewed her detention as harsh and politically motivated, sparking debates about cannabis legality and athlete advocacy.
Griner’s case underscored the complexities of cannabis laws across different countries and the urgent need for reform. Her story added another layer to the discussion, emphasizing the importance of protecting athletes and advocating for fair treatment under the law.
Institutional Shifts
Now, onto some good news. Let’s talk about the big moves that have shaken up the sports world’s stance on cannabis. These institutional shifts are paving the way for a more open and accepting approach to cannabis use among athletes.
The NCAA’s Announcement
In a groundbreaking decision, the NCAA recently announced that marijuana and cannabis products will no longer be classified as banned substances for college football’s postseason and all Division I championships. This move is a significant step forward, acknowledging the changing attitudes towards cannabis and its potential benefits.
For student-athletes, this means less fear of punishment for cannabis use and more focus on their game. The broader sports community is also taking note, as this decision sets a precedent for professional and other sports organizations to reconsider their cannabis policies.
The NBA’s Policy Change
The NBA also made headlines with its progressive stance on cannabis.
In April 2023, under a new seven-year collective bargaining agreement, the league decided to remove cannabis from its list of tested drugs.
This shift reflects the growing acceptance of cannabis and recognizes its potential benefits for players’ wellness and recovery.
However, WNBA players have not been granted the same access. Cannabis remains banned, keeping players from openly using it for pain management or relaxation. This contrast highlights the ongoing debate and the need for consistent policies across all sports leagues, especially when comparing men’s and women’s leagues.
The NWSL Allows CBD
On a brighter note, the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) allows the use of CBD. This policy acknowledges the non-psychoactive benefits of cannabis, giving players access to a natural remedy for stress and physical strain. The league’s acceptance of CBD is a step in the right direction, supporting player wellness and opening the door for further cannabis policy changes.
Adding to the momentum, Megan Rapinoe and her twin sister Rachel made history by launching a CBD startup called Mendi. Though the company has since closed, their advocacy brought significant attention to the benefits of CBD for athletes. The Rapinoe sisters’ efforts have helped destigmatize cannabis use in sports and inspired many athletes to explore its potential.
Future Outlook
Looking ahead, the future of cannabis in sports is bright and full of potential. With shifting perceptions and growing acceptance, we can expect to see even more progress in the coming years.
Regulations are poised to evolve, reflecting the latest scientific research and societal attitudes. We can anticipate more lenient policies and possibly even the development of standardized guidelines for cannabis use in sports. Athlete support systems will also improve, offering education and resources to help athletes make informed decisions about cannabis use.
Advocacy and education will play a crucial role in this evolution. Athletes, healthcare professionals, and cannabis advocates will need to continue pushing for change and raising awareness about the benefits of cannabis. By sharing their stories and supporting research, they can help drive the conversation forward and ensure that policies keep pace with the latest knowledge.
BestBüds Leading the Way!
In this evolving landscape, local dispensaries are at the forefront of supporting athletes and the wider community. At BestBüds dispensary, we provide a range of cannabis products, including those geared toward athletes looking for natural alternatives for pain relief, recovery, and stress management. Why? Because we’re athletes ourselves!
Come visit us and learn how high-quality, effective cannabis solutions help you stay at the top of your game.
*The contents of this blog are intended for informational purposes only. Always seek the advice of a physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.*
