Tennis players have been warned of “extremely serious” consequences if they breach new anti-doping protocols, including taking showers without staying in full view of doping control chaperones.
As part of a stricter anti-doping enforcement, the International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) emphasized that while post-match showers may be permitted, they are not guaranteed. Players must remain visible to chaperones at all times during the doping control process. If privacy is a concern, the ITIA advises players to reconsider showering before sample collection.
“Failure to remain in full view of the chaperone will be taken extremely seriously,” the ITIA stated.
This crackdown follows a string of recent doping controversies involving top players like Jannik Sinner and Iga Swiatek, both former World No. 1s. Each tested positive for banned substances in the previous season, leading to suspensions that sparked widespread debate.
Sinner received a three-month ban, drawing criticism from tennis greats such as Serena Williams, who implied the punishment would have been far harsher for others.
“If I did that, I would have gotten 20 years. Let’s be honest,” said Williams. “Men’s tennis needs him, but rules should apply equally.”
Sinner is set to return in time for the French Open, despite the controversy surrounding his case. Swiatek’s situation also remains under scrutiny as tennis authorities continue to ramp up their anti-doping efforts.
The sport now faces a critical period of enforcing fair play while balancing athlete welfare and privacy.
