Simona Halep’s four-year ban due to doping has sent shockwaves throughout the tennis world. The International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) found Halep guilty on two counts of doping. Since this news broke out, Maria Sakkari revealed the realities of tennis players living in constant fear of doping.
Several stars have directly or indirectly addressed Halep’s four-year ban. Serena Williams hinted that she deserved an eighth Wimbledon title. Halep had steamrollered her in the final in 2019.
However, in the wake of this unfortunate news, Maria Sakkari gave a very thoughtful answer. Sakkari highlighted the scary reality of anti-doping organizations, and how players have to be mindful of them at all times. “One thing I can tell you for sure is the way they’re handling every situation with any player, any athlete, it’s just scary,” said Sakkari (via amp.nine.com.au).
Maria Sakkari was asked if she trusts the doping authorities after the decision in Simona Halep case:
“One thing I can tell you for sure is the way they’re handling every situation with any player, any athlete, it’s just scary. We’re gonna get to a point where we’re not even… pic.twitter.com/w6YQA1gwwb
— The Tennis Letter (@TheTennisLetter) September 13, 2023
Sakkari opened up about the risks that are involved in sample testing. She fears there might come a time when players will not be able to take electrolytes either. Her words took an ominous turn when she said she did not know what happened behind closed doors. Or if anyone had a say in this matter.
Halep’s case shows that these fears are not unfounded. Simona is one of the most prominent players to be banned for doping in recent times. The ITIA accused her of taking the banned drug Roxadustat, which increases the total red blood cell count. There were also irregularities in her Athlete Biological Passport.
Maria Sakkari is one of the few players who has not derided Halep just yet, unlike Eugenie Bouchard and others. Her answer conveyed a hint of sympathy, given how difficult it has been for Sakkari of late.
Why Maria Sakkari decided to return to tennis so soon
The Greek player has been going through a tumultuous period in her career. She crashed out of the US Open in the first round itself. Maria has not managed to go beyond the first round in three successive Grand Slams.
Following her defeat at the Flushing Meadows, Sakkari broke down during the press conference. What she did not realize was that she was still being recorded.
Maria had floated the idea of taking a short break from tennis because she was “suffering” during the matches. However, she decided to return given the outpouring of love and support she received. The visuals of Sakkari in tears touched the hearts of her followers, who showered her with goodwill. “I didn’t know it was being recorded,” she said. “I didn’t know it was going to get as big as it got, especially back home.”
Maria Sakkari is currently playing at the San Diego Open. She is the third seed at the tournament, receiving a bye in the first round. She will face Camila Osorio at the WTA 500 event.