“The excuse that we can all use is that we didn’t know. Simply didn’t know,” said Nick Kyrgios, extending a harsh take on Iga Swiatek‘s ongoing doping controversy. The case, which began quite a while ago, didn’t come to light initially but the authorities eventually gave out information. This also followed a video message from the Pole as she expressed the emotional toll it took on her. Although the critics stand firm on their side, there are other big names who believe that the four-time Roland Garros champion is innocent. One such comment recently came from WTA star Beatriz Haddad Maia.

Beatriz recently stepped forward to defend Iga Swiatek’s reputation. As the Polish tennis star faces scrutiny over a doping incident, Haddad Maia expressed sheer confidence in her credibility. She dismissed any doubts about Swiatek’s integrity or intentions. “I am sure, very sure that Iga would never take anything to enhance performance. Not only I know her, her character, her values, and the work of her team, they’re extremely professional. So regarding this topic, I have no doubts about it,” Haddad Maia said. Her statement comes at a time when Swiatek has faced criticism from several corners of the tennis community.

The controversy began after the International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) announced that Swiatek tested positive for the banned substance trimetazidine (TMZ). The test was conducted in August during an out-of-competition screening. However, investigations revealed the positive result was due to contamination. The ITIA confirmed that the prohibited substance was found in Swiatek’s melatonin medication, which she was using to manage sleep issues and jet lag.

The ITIA acknowledged Swiatek’s cooperation and determined there was no significant fault or negligence on her part. As a result, they offered her a one-month suspension, which Swiatek had to accept.

The WTA released a statement expressing full support for the world number two. It acknowledged the ITIA’s findings and emphasized Swiatek’s commitment to fair play. “Iga has consistently demonstrated a strong commitment to fair play and upholding the principles of clean sport,” the WTA stated. The association highlighted the challenges athletes face while using regulated medications and supplements.

Swiatek also addressed the situation with a video message on Instagram. She revealed the toll the incident took on her and her team. “Stress and anxiety” were among the challenges they dealt with after receiving the test results. Despite the concerns, Swiatek’s supporters, including Haddad Maia rallied behind her. However, besides the WTA star herself, the authorities also faced backlash for keeping the issues lowkey.

PTPA criticizes WTA’s handling of Iga Swiatek’s suspension

The Novak Djokovic-founded Professional Tennis Players Association (PTPA) strongly criticized the WTA’s response to Iga Swiatek’s recent doping suspension. The WTA had issued a statement referring to the matter as an “unfortunate incident” while extending support to Swiatek. However, the PTPA took issue with this characterization and addressed their dissatisfaction through a series of remarks from their executive director, Ahmad Nassar.

Nassar expressed his concerns on social media and stated that the situation was not merely an “unfortunate incident.” He wrote on X, “A real unfortunate incident is something you cannot control. Tennis can – and should! – no, must! – control its own anti-doping process.” Nassar highlighted the flaws in the current system and questioned the heavy burden placed on athletes. He criticized the idea that players like Swiatek should be expected to pre-test their medications, such as melatonin, for contamination. “What ‘precaution’ should Iga have taken here? Pre-test melatonin on the minuscule chance it was contaminated? Come on,” he said.

Nassar also proposed a solution while suggesting that tennis authorities offer pre-tested medications like melatonin to players to prevent such incidents. He also didd’t back down from accusing the tennis establishment of imposing unreasonable standards on athletes while failing to support them. Nassar pointed out the timing of the announcement, calling it a “classic subterfuge” for being released on Thanksgiving morning in the U.S. Swiatek’s suspension has only eight days remaining, and she is set to return in time for the United Cup and the Australian Open. As more reports continue to unfold, it still remains to be seen how the situation will be dealt. What are your thoughts?