ITF react to Russian doping ban ahead of 2020 Olympics

Tuesday, 10 December 2019 at 17:40

Earlier this week, Russia were given a four-year ban from hosting or attending 'major sporting events' such as the 2020 Olympics and 2022 World Cup.

This was done by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA); with evidence being released; which shows that Russia covered up failed drugs tests.

“For too long, Russian doping has detracted from clean sport. The blatant breach by the Russian authorities of Rusada’s reinstatement conditions; demanded a robust response. That is exactly what has been delivered.” WADA chief Sir Craig Reedie said.

“Russia was afforded every opportunity to get its house in order and rejoin the global anti-doping community; for the good of its athletes and of the integrity of sport; but it chose instead to continue in its stance of deception and denial.”

The ITF were contacted regarding what that means for tennis and Heather Bowler, who is the ITF's executive director for communications said that no tennis players were pointed out; but that players such as Daniil Medvedev will only be able to compete if they satisfy certain terms.

“According to the WADA decision issued earlier today (Monday), Russian athletes will only be eligible to compete in major competitions; subject to satisfying certain conditions listed by the WADA Compliance Review Committee.“ Bowler said in a statement.

“The ITF is not currently aware of any Russian tennis player having been mentioned in incriminating circumstances in the McLaren Report (2016) nor has any evidence been provided to the ITF at this time in relation to the manipulation, alteration or deletion of anti-doping data in the Moscow anti-doping laboratory’s database.” She added.

This means that in effect Medvedev and his counterparts would have to compete under a neutral banner like Russian's currently do in Athletics and if they win the gold medal, they will not receive the Russian national anthem.

Samuel GillEditor-in-Chief

Samuel Gill is the Chief Content Officer (CCO) of TennisUpToDate.com, a role he has held since 2020. He is responsible for editorial governance across the platform, including setting content standards, overseeing accuracy and consistency, and guiding long-term editorial strategy. Since joining, he has contributed more than 10,000 articles and editorial pieces across the TennisUpToDate network, playing a central role in the daily operation and development of the site.

Based in Leicester, Samuel has a broad background in tennis media. In his current role, he works closely with editors and writers to ensure coverage meets clear journalistic standards, with particular attention to verification, consistency, and timely updates when new information becomes available.

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