“You have to trust that they’re coming to the right conclusion”: Jessica Pegula trusts ITIA’s decision on Iga Swiatek’s suspension
WTA
World No. 7
Jessica Pegula weighed in on the doping case involving her colleague Iga
Swiatek, defending the explanation provided for the suspension of the five-time
Grand Slam champion. The Polish player is serving a one-month suspension, set
to conclude during the off-season.
World No. 2
Swiatek’s case is the latest doping controversy, reminiscent of Jannik Sinner’s
earlier this year. In Swiatek’s situation, Trimetazidine entered her system
after consuming melatonin contaminated with the banned substance. It was
determined that there was no negligence but fault due to purchasing melatonin
from a source not recommended by the ITIA.
Pegula discusses Swiatek’s suspension and ITIA’s explanation
As in
Sinner’s case, many were frustrated that the situation was not immediately
disclosed. Swiatek served a provisional suspension during the Asian Swing,
although this was not public at the time. Following her appeal, she was allowed
to return to the Tour late in the season.
Unlike
players like Nick Kyrgios or Denis Shapovalov, Pegula avoided controversy and
expressed confidence in the ITIA’s investigation. “I don’t know, it seems like
they investigated it and she had her reasoning,” Pegula told the media in New
York earlier this week. “You have to trust that they’re doing their job—that
they’re coming to the right conclusion.”
“I think
it’s just frustrating for people on the outside—or even for some players—that
it just seems so hit or miss with how people get punished. I’ve been explained
why it happens. But at the same time it’s like ‘Yeah, but how does this vary so
deeply?’ And I think that can be frustrating. But how it was explained to me,
it seems pretty cut and dried almost,” Pegula said. “And the explanation made
sense.”
Although
Swiatek is serving her suspension during the off-season, Pegula noted that her
colleague already served part of it during the Asian Swing, which may have
impacted her chances of finishing the year as World No. 1. “You’re kind of
wondering how that works when you’re not competing how it doesn’t seem to
affect anything so it’s really not much of a punishment,”
“But I mean
she did miss the Asian swing and that also may have hurt her chances for the
year-end No. 1, which is obviously massive for her,” the 2024 US Open runner-up
sai. “Money-wise and sponsors and being able to have that No. 1 spot hurt too.
So I’m sure she didn’t want to miss those.”
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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