"Current players are setting bad examples for younger generations": Kyrgios backs Kafelnikov’s harsh stance on Swiatek doping case:

Sunday, 01 December 2024 at 22:00

Nick Kyrgios expressed his agreement with Yevgeny Kafelnikov after the Russian former tennis star criticised the “bad example for younger generations” set amid Iga Swiatek’s doping case. Kafelnikov shared his views on social media, with Kyrgios reposting them.

The current WTA World No. 2 recently announced that she tested positive for trimetazidine, accepting a one-month suspension. The case is reminiscent of Jannik Sinner’s situation months ago. Like the Italian, Swiatek proved there was no negligence on her part, avoiding a more severe penalty.

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The news sent shockwaves through the tennis world. Former World No. 1 Kafelnikov took to social media to voice his concerns. “Sometimes I wonder... 'Why the hell was I not using steroids throughout my career, so I could play 300 matches a year instead of 170?' This is really a shame, what’s happening to tennis now,” he wrote.

Later, Kafelnikov added that such cases could send harmful messages to young players aspiring to go pro. “And the sad part to all of this is that young and upcoming players (12–16 years old) look at their idols and think maybe it’s normal to use steroids in the future and get away with it! Current players are setting bad examples for younger generations,” said the two-time Grand Slam champion, whose remarks Kyrgios reposted.

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A fan responded to Kafelnikov, defending Swiatek: “Young players will learn that even without doping, they may fail a test due to inadvertent contamination but will be able to prove in court that it was just an accident. However, there will always be haters, fans of rivals, and old tennis players.”

“This is not true!! Nobody will fail a test unless you purposely use a banned substance,” Kafelnikov replied. “It should be a LIFE ban for anybody who gets caught using banned substances! NO excuses and ZERO tolerance, no matter who you are!!!!” the 50-year-old added.

Yup https://t.co/z9MCgCPH2N
— Nicholas Kyrgios (@NickKyrgios) November 30, 2024

This is not true!! Nobody will fail a test unless you purposely use ban substance
— Kafelnikov Yevgeny (@KYevgeni) November 30, 2024

Cristhián AvilaTennis Journalist

Cristhián Ávila is a tennis journalist based in Santiago, Chile, and has been part of the TennisUpToDate team since early 2023. He covers the ATP and WTA Tours as well as all four Grand Slams, producing breaking news, match reports, analysis, and regular liveblogs from major tournaments.

His reporting combines statistical analysis with clear explanation, helping readers understand tactical developments, player form, and broader storylines across the tour. Working fluently in both Spanish and English, Cristhián collaborates with an international editorial team and contributes to comprehensive global coverage. As part of his work, he has conducted interviews and media interactions with leading figures in the sport, including Caroline Wozniacki and John McEnroe.

In his journalism, Cristhián places strong emphasis on careful sourcing, editorial accuracy, and updating articles promptly when new, verified information becomes available. His coverage is grounded in research, context, and direct engagement with professional tennis.

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