Simona Halep has broken her silence regarding her doping suspension that began almost seven months ago after her first-round exit from the US Open. She was handed a provisional suspension by the International Tennis Integrity Agency for testing positive for Roxadustat. In an exclusive interview with Tennis Majors, the former World No. 1 opened up about her experience so far.
Halep’s Initial Reaction and Investigation
Halep disclosed that she was shocked and initially unsure of how to handle the situation, as she was unfamiliar with Roxadustat. She went online to learn more about the substance and ultimately discovered that it was a major banned substance. Halep then sought the help of independent experts to uncover how the drug could have entered her system. The experts concluded that the most likely cause of the positive result was supplement contamination.
Contamination and Low Quantity Explanation
Halep’s experts supported their conclusion by pointing out the very low quantity of Roxadustat found in her body, claiming it must be due to an error by the company that manufactured one of her authorized supplements. Halep reiterated her commitment to checking all components of her supplements to ensure they are authorized and emphasized her confusion about how the substance could be present in her urine.
Uncertainty and Frustration with the ITF
Halep expressed dissatisfaction with the International Tennis Federation (ITF) for the lack of progress in her case. Her hearing, currently scheduled for May 28, could still be canceled. The emotional toll of waiting for nearly eight months without a chance to prove her innocence is one of the reasons Halep decided to speak publicly. She initially planned to remain silent until the case was resolved but realized she owed it to her fans to keep them informed.
