"Kim is onto something here": Former hitting partner of Serena Williams says Clijsters is correct on coaches facing repurcussions for Halep saga
WTA
Serena
Williams' former hitting partner Sascha Bajin said he agrees with Kim Clijsters
regarding concerns that Simona Halep's team may not face consequences amid the
doping case.
The
Romanian tennis player has maintained her innocence since the controversy
began. Halep received a four-year suspension after the 2022 US Open, where she
tested positive for the supplement Roxadust, which enhances hemoglobin
production in the body.
Following
the revelation of the anti-doping rule violation, the International Tennis
Integrity Agency (ITIA) imposed a suspension on Halep from all competitions
until 2026. However, after several trial delays, the former world No. 1 was
able to defend herself. Her team, led by Patrick Mouratoglou, acknowledged
providing her with the supplement but claimed they were unaware that it was
contaminated with the substance that affected Halep.
In the
latest episode of "Served with Andy Roddick," 4-times Grand Slam
champion Kim Clijsters expressed her concern that there are no sanctions
against Halep's team: "To me, the biggest red flag is the team. I have a
really hard time that there is no consequence for the team, that it's just the
athlete," Clijsters said.
Serena
Williams' former hitting partner, Sascha Bajin, commented on X (formerly
Twitter) that he agrees with the former Belgian tennis player and believes it
is unfair that only the athletes can receive sanctions in doping cases, as
responsibility could extend to the team:
"I
think Kim [Clijsters] is onto something here. I share her thoughts about
coaches that give players supplements. Don't think it's fair that only the
players get the consequences. What you guys think?" Bajin wrote on X
(formerly Twitter).
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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