Kyrgios Critiques Doping Scandals Involving Sinner and Swiatek
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New Delhi, Dec 28 (NationPress) Australian tennis phenom Nick Kyrgios strongly criticized tennis authorities for their approach to the high-stakes doping allegations involving Grand Slam champions Jannik Sinner and Iga Swiatek. He deemed the situation disgusting, asserting that the current state of integrity in tennis is unacceptable and presents a terrible image for the sport.
Kyrgios’ remarks arrive as the tennis community deals with controversies surrounding two former world number ones. The Italian star Jannik Sinner, who is the reigning men's world number one, was found to have tested positive for clostebol, an anabolic steroid, on two occasions in March.
Despite the International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) clearing him of any wrongdoing, the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) has appealed this verdict, taking the matter to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).
On the other hand, Poland’s Iga Swiatek, who held the title of women’s world number one at the time, faced a one-month suspension after her positive test for trimetazidine (TMZ), a prohibited heart medication. The ITIA accepted that the positive result stemmed from contamination in her melatonin supplements, leading to the conclusion of her suspension on December 4.
Kyrgios speaks out
As he prepares for his return to competitive play at the Brisbane International following an 18-month injury hiatus, Kyrgios did not shy away from voicing his concerns: “Having two world number ones caught up in doping scandals is disgraceful for our sport. The integrity of tennis at this moment is, and everyone recognizes it even if no one dares to address it, terrible. It’s simply not acceptable. It’s a horrible look,” Kyrgios was quoted by BBC Sport.
“I understand that my honesty may not sit well with everyone, but I’m merely speaking the truth. This is not the type of example we wish to set for future generations,” the Australian star further remarked.
The way these cases have been managed has led to claims of inconsistency, particularly from two-time Grand Slam champion Simona Halep, who has criticized the ITIA for what she views as a disparate treatment compared to her own doping case. The ITIA has rejected any claims of double standards, asserting that every case is evaluated based on its unique circumstances.
“The integrity of tennis right now is appalling, and everyone knows it but is reluctant to discuss it. It’s simply not right. I know that people may not appreciate my forthrightness, but I believe in being honest about issues,” he added.
In the midst of this turmoil, Kyrgios is set to make his eagerly awaited comeback at the Brisbane International, where he will face French player Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard in singles. Additionally, he will team up with Novak Djokovic, who is pursuing his 100th Tour-level title, for the men’s doubles event.
