Legal and Psychological Support for Tennis Players in Doping Investigations
The International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) announced a new support program for tennis players involved in investigations for doping or match-fixing. This pilot program, which starts immediately and will be evaluated next year, offers free legal assistance, confidential advice, and financial support. The main goal is to provide resources to players facing difficult situations, recognizing the emotional and financial impact that these investigations can generate. Tennis players will be able to access:- Up to $5,000 for analysis of medications and supplements in laboratories accredited by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA).
- Up to $5,000 to identify potential sources of contamination in food, a common explanation in doping cases.
- Free legal support from the moment a player tests positive for a banned substance, through Sport Resolutions.
- Six sessions of emotional and well-being support provided by Sporting Chance.
“We recognize that the process can have a financial and emotional cost,” said Karen Moorhouse, CEO of the ITIA.
Karen Moorhouse, CEO of the ITIA
This program comes after the ITIA was involved in high-profile doping cases last year, which resulted in short suspensions for renowned players.“No player picks up a tennis racket as a child with any other motivation than to play the game,” she added. “Individuals find themselves in these situations for many reasons, so regardless of what those reasons are and how the case ends, they also deserve someone to talk to.”
Karen Moorhouse, CEO of the ITIA
