Simona Halep ‘provisionally suspended’ after failing drugs test and releases statement
Former world No 1 Simona Halep has been ‘provisionally suspended’ after returning a positive test for Roxadustat at the US Open. The International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) announced the two-time major champion had undergone a drugs test during the US Open where her sample was split into two groups.
It was found that she tested positive for Roxadustat, a drug which helps increase the production of red blood cells.
The ITIA’s statement read: “The subsequent analysis found that the A sample contiained FG-4592 (Roxadustat), which is a prohibited substance listed in the 2022 World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) Prohibited List. Adverse Analytical Findings for non-specified substances carry a mandatory provisional suspension.
“The player exercised their right to request that the B sample was analysed, which confirmed the finding in the A sample. While provisionally suspended, the player is ineligble to compete in or attend any sanctioned tennis events organised by the governing bodies of the sport.”
Halep announced last month that she would miss the remainder of the 2022 season after undergoing nose surgery. The world No 9 gave little indication on when she would plan on returning, but now faces a battle to get back on the court following the failed drugs test.
Halep has vowed to fight against the charge, pleading his innocence and wants to clear her name. In a statement posted on social media, she wrote: “Today begins the hardest match of my life: a fight for the truth.
