Former world number one, Iga Swiatek, is currently serving a one-month suspension after testing positive for trimetazidine, a banned heart medication, back in August.
According to the International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA), traces of trimetazidine were found in Swiatek’s test results due to ingesting melatonin, which had very small amounts of the banned substance. Swiatek accepted the suspension, acknowledging the violation was unintentional and her level of fault was minimal, classified as “no significant fault or negligence” by the ITIA.
Swiatek’s provisional suspension began on September 12 and lasted until October 4, during which she missed three tournaments: the Korea Open, China Open, and Wuhan Open. She also forfeited approximately $158,944 in prize money from the Cincinnati Open, where she reached the semifinals shortly after her positive test. As her suspension nears its end on December 4, she expressed relief and gratitude for the support from her team and fans. In a video message, she described the experience as “the worst of my life,” highlighting the stress and anxiety it caused her and her team.
The ITIA’s investigation confirmed that Swiatek’s positive test resulted from contaminated melatonin tablets manufactured in Poland. The agency emphasized that while the product is regulated in Poland, it does not have the same status globally. Karen Moorhouse, ITIA CEO, noted that this case was unusual due to the contaminated product’s nature.
Despite this setback, Swiatek remains a leading figure in women’s tennis. She won five Grand Slam titles, including four at Roland Garros and a bronze medal at the 2024 Paris Olympics. Although she has recently been surpassed by Aryna Sabalenka for the top ranking, Swiatek has consistently performed at an elite level over the past few years.
Looking ahead, Swiatek is expected to return to competition at the 2025 Australian Open in January. The WTA has expressed support for her during this difficult period while reinforcing her commitment to fair play.
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