Doping controversies continue to plague women’s tennis, with the latest case involving five-time major winner Iga Swiatek. Swiatek tested positive for low levels of the banned substance trimetazidine (TMZ) in August 2024 while holding the world No. 1 ranking.
The ITIA confirmed that the positive test was due to contamination of a regulated non-prescription medication (melatonin) used by Swiatek to manage jet lag and sleep issues. The violation was deemed unintentional, with Swiatek’s fault level considered at the lowest end of the scale for “No Significant Fault or Negligence.”
Swiatek’s absence from tournaments and sudden withdrawals were due to the ongoing doping investigation, shedding light on the situation that fans were unaware of.
Swiatek’s emotional statement revealed the toll the ordeal took on her:
“In the last two-and-a-half months I was subject to strict ITIA proceedings, which confirmed my innocence. The only positive doping test in my career put everything I’ve worked for into question.”
After a successful appeal, Swiatek’s one-month suspension was lifted on December 4, 2024, following the confirmation of the contaminated medication as the cause of the positive result. Despite the resolution, Swiatek had to forfeit prize money from the Cincinnati Open.
Reflecting on the ordeal, Swiatek stated:
“Both me and my team had to deal with tremendous stress and anxiety. Now with a clean slate, I can go back to what I love most.”
During this challenging time, Swiatek also made changes by switching coaches and losing her No. 1 ranking to Aryna Sabalenka on October 21.
