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The International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) is facing criticism following its recent communication regarding anti-doping protocols. The agency emphasized that players selected for doping tests must remain in the sight of their chaperones, even if they decide to take a shower beforehand.
In a message circulated to players through various tennis tours and subsequently shared on social media, the ITIA clarified that while showers can be viewed as allowable delays in the doping control process, this should not be seen as an automatic right. The agency urged players who choose to shower to strictly follow the guideline of remaining in view of the observing chaperone at all times. Ignoring this mandate, the ITIA stated, would be treated with utmost seriousness.
This announcement led to significant discontent among fans online, with some expressing discomfort over the requirement, especially for younger players who may find it unsettling to shower in the presence of others. Former British player Mark Petchey labeled the practice as “unacceptable,” while former Australian doubles star Rennae Stubbs pointed out that this rule is not a new development.
The ITIA responded to the backlash by acknowledging the discomfort associated with the anti-doping testing process. The organization explained that, consistent with regulations from the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA)—which governs more than just tennis—players selected for testing have to be closely monitored by a chaperone from the time they are informed of the test until it is completed. This procedure adheres to the established standards of the World Anti-Doping Code.
Recent scrutiny of anti-doping enforcement in tennis has amplified, particularly after top-ranked athletes like Jannik Sinner and Iga Swiatek received no substantial sanctions despite testing positive for banned substances. The ITIA assures the public that decisions are made based on evidence without favoritism towards players’ status or nationality.
Former chief of the Australian Sports Anti-Doping Authority, Richard Ings, commented on social media, reinforcing that the showering rule is standard procedure to ensure integrity during testing. He explained, “Players need to be observed passing urine to rule out substitution. They must also be monitored in the shower to ensure they do not dispose of urine required for analysis.”
The ITIA acknowledged that producing a sample can require time and assured that there are allowable delays in reporting to the doping control station, such as for cooling down and showering. “Player welfare is a priority, and we advocate for their right to well-being,” the ITIA stated. “However, it is crucial that these activities do not compromise the integrity of the sample. We routinely remind players of the specific regulations in place and remain open to any inquiries they may have regarding these rules.”
Source
www.theguardian.com