Legal and Emotional Support for Tennis Players Involved in Investigations
The International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) announced this Wednesday a new support program for tennis players. This program offers free legal assistance, confidential advice, and financial resources for those players involved in investigations for doping or match-fixing. The program, which takes effect immediately, will be reviewed next year. The initiative seeks to provide comprehensive support to players facing difficult situations related to potential rule violations. Tennis players can receive up to $5,000 to analyze medications or supplements in laboratories accredited by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA), in order to detect possible contaminations. The same amount is also offered to identify sources of contaminated meat, a common explanation in cases of failed doping tests. Sport Resolutions, an independent dispute resolution service that manages tribunals for anti-doping cases in tennis, will extend its free legal support to players from the moment they test positive for a prohibited substance. Previously, this service was only available after charges were filed. Additionally, Sporting Chance, an organization working on the mental health of athletes, will provide six support sessions for the well-being of players who are being investigated for anti-corruption or anti-doping violations.We recognize that the process can have a financial and emotional cost.
Karen Moorhouse, CEO of the ITIA
The ITIA was involved in two high-profile doping cases in tennis that began last year.No player picks up a tennis racket as a child with any motivation other than to play the game. People find themselves in these situations for many reasons, so, no matter what those reasons are and where the case ends up, they also deserve someone to talk to.
Karen Moorhouse, CEO of the ITIA
