“It cannot be assumed that a TUE will be granted,” Tennis players given official warnings over usage of ADHD medications amidst rising doping cases
The International Tennis Integrity Agency has issued a letter to warn players against misuse of ADHD medication and TUE applications
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Tennis players have received official warnings against the use of medication. This is because of concerns that some may do so to obtain a competitive edge rather than treat a real problem. Recently, the number of doping cases has steadily risen. Most recently, Fernando Verdasco received a two-month ban for not renewing his Therapeutic Use Exemption (TUE) application.
In an unusual move, the organization in charge of maintaining the integrity of the sport has sent a notice to professionals. The letter informs them of their obligations with regard to the treatment of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). It also emphasizes the requirement for strong evidence to support claims that the drug is legitimately required.
The letter further stated, “It cannot be assumed that a TUE will be granted…those who have received a genuine clinical diagnosis of ADHD…may be granted a TUE.” The agency also warned players to keep the rules in mind…retroactive applications that are denied may lead to the player being charged with an anti-doping rule violation…it is a player’s sole responsibility to ensure that their TUE is renewed in advance of the expiry date.”
For those uninitiated, ADHD medication can significantly affect sportspersons. They may be especially beneficial in sports like tennis and golf since they can boost attention and concentration over extended periods of time. A lengthy investigation started when Verdasco, now 39, tested positive for methylphenidate at a tournament in Brazil. He was granted a reduced two-month suspension back in November.
As per the investigation, his doctor had prescribed the medication to treat his long-standing ADHD. He had neglected to renew the TUE that allowed the exemption. Every player on the WTA and ATP Tours received a letter, according to an ITIA spokeswoman.
Maria Sharapova was also banned in 2016 for failing a doping test
According to WADA, a TUE permits the person to “compete in a proper state of health” without providing a competitive advantage is permitted. The athlete has an illness that requires a specific medication that is on the list of prohibited substances. Maria Sharapova was given a two-year sentence after failing a drug test at the 2016 Australian Open.
The penalty was later reduced to fifteen months after the Court of Arbitration for Sport determined that she had taken the medicine on a doctor’s advice. The ITIA reduced Verdasco’s suspension from two years to two months since it was determined that the Spaniard’s breach was accidental.
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