Richard Gasquet points out the ‘lack of understanding’ of doping within tennis authorities after Iga Swiatek’s suspension
Richard Gasquet is among many former and current tennis players who have pointed out the flaws in Iga Swiatek's suspension.
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Richard Gasquet and Iga Swiatek (via X)
The tennis world is still reacting to the news of Iga Swiatek’s doping violation. She tested positive and was suspended for one month. Richard Gasquet has criticized those involved in doping rather than the Polish player herself.
Gasquet, who will retire after Roland Garros next year, spoke about the issue in French media. He said that the lack of a proper system is a major problem. According to him, people only find out about violations after they happen. He also thinks tennis authorities don’t fully understand the complexities of doping in the sport.
I think all sports are quite difficult. All sports can at some point have doping. Tennis can be part of it. Obviously, there was cycling. Now, there is tennis… Anything is possible. What worries me the most is that we don’t really understand how it works. You find out afterwards! Normally, there is a trial, then you have a deliberation, you have a sentence that falls. Here, we learn everything at the same time and that is not normal, it doesn’t mean anything. It is not up to standard.
Richard Gasquet said on Ladepeche
Swiatek’s case is the most recent doping scandal in tennis. She failed a test in August, and the International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) banned her for one month. The decision has sparked debates within the tennis community.
Another unresolved doping case involves Jannik Sinner. He faced allegations after the Indian Wells tournament in March 2024. The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) challenged the ITIA’s decision to clear him. The case is now with the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).
Richard Gasquet to headline exhibition in December with Dominic Thiem
Dominic Thiem retired from professional tennis in October after finishing his run at the Vienna Open. However, he will take part in one more event this year. The 31-year-old Austrian is set to compete in the Open de Caen, an exhibition tournament. His first match will be against Richard Gasquet on December 9.
The Open de Caen will feature other big names like Ugo Humbert and Cameron Norrie. Thiem’s matchup with Gasquet is one of the most anticipated games of the event. It will be a chance for fans to watch the Austrian in action again.
Richard Gasquet also plans to retire soon. The Frenchman will leave professional tennis after Roland Garros in June 2024. He made the announcement on October 9, just one day before Rafael Nadal revealed his retirement plans.
Gasquet’s retirement news received less attention because of Nadal’s high-profile announcement. Meanwhile, Thiem had already shared his decision to retire earlier in April this year.
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Fahad Hamid
(625 Articles Published)