World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka has revealed she’s become extremely cautious about what she consumes due to growing concerns over doping violations in professional tennis. Speaking ahead of the Madrid Open, Sabalenka admitted she now refuses to drink from any water bottle that has been left unattended—even for just a few minutes.
“After the recent cases, I’ve become overprotective about what I eat and drink,” she said. “If I leave a bottle of water out, even in a hotel room or here at the tournament, I won’t drink from it again—I get a new one.”
Sabalenka’s heightened caution follows the recent doping suspensions of Jannik Sinner and Iga Swiatek. Both athletes successfully argued their positive tests were due to contamination, a defense accepted by tennis’ anti-doping authorities.
“It’s scary,” the three-time Grand Slam champion added. “The longer you’re on tour, the more overprotective you become. Everyone is now extremely vigilant. We all try to make sure no one touches our food, drinks, or supplements.”
ATP No. 8 Andrey Rublev echoed similar concerns earlier this week, describing his own routine as one of “constant stress.” He avoids medication altogether and said even minor health issues aren’t worth the risk.
Emma Raducanu has also expressed concerns in the past, admitting she once avoided using bug spray on a bite due to contamination fears.
As tennis grapples with increased scrutiny over doping regulations, top players appear to be taking unprecedented steps to protect their careers—and reputations.
