On Tuesday, Simona Halep received the long-awaited news, the Court of Arbitration for Sport in Lausanne reduced her suspension from four years to just nine months, and the former world number one is ready to return to the court.
>> WRONG The suspension of Simona Halep was reduced to only 9 months, TAS reports – the ex-WTA leader can return to the court
Simona Halep and the announcement of her return
At the end of a great day that allowed her to play tennis again, Simona Halep wanted to send a message to her supporters and the people who believe in her until the end.
“Today was a pivotal moment when the court issued its verdict, confirming my position and shedding light on this case.
(1) In a unanimous decision, the tribunal acquitted me of any wrongdoing regarding the allegations of blood doping.
(2) It was also unanimously determined that the accident that tested positive for Roxadustat was the result of accidental co-contamination of the additive, resulting in a reduced sentence of nine months.
(3) In addition, the court ordered ITIA to compensate me 20,000 Swiss francs.
In the midst of this challenge, I was guided by my steadfast belief in the integrity of truth and the principles of justice.
Despite the terrible accusations and strong opposition, my spirit remained positive, unwavering in my conviction to be a clean athlete.
This test was a testimony of endurance, and the triumph of truth is a bittersweet vindication, which, although delayed, is extremely pleasant.
I express my sincere gratitude to my legal team, whose unwavering faith and exceptional dedication to the cause have been essential during this turbulent time.
Likewise, my sponsors, loyal fans and some wonderful colleagues have been my backbone, giving me unwavering support and solidarity.
The overwhelming support of so many Romanians strengthened my resolve, allowing me to bring this case to a just and honorable verdict.
I look forward to turning the page and joining the circle stronger and fresher.
With love and gratitude, Simona,” the message on social networks reads.
Check out this Instagram post
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What you need to know about Simona Halep’s doping case
- The news that Simona Halep was temporarily suspended for doping appeared on Friday, October 21, 2022.
- Simona’s case was heard by Sport Resolutions, an independent tribunal in London that hears doping cases in white sport.
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Halep was suspended for 4 years for two separate violations of the Tennis Anti-Doping Program (TADP): the presence and use of the substance roxadustat in a urine sample collected after an anti-doping test conducted at the 2022 US Open (1) and a violation of her biological passport (2).
- Halep was heard at the CAS on February 7-9, 2024.
- The Swiss court said that the ex-leader of the WTA asked to cancel the decision of the International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) and “reduce” its sanctions.
- On August 29, 2022, Simona Halep played her last official match on the world circuit. At the US Open, in the inaugural round, our athlete unexpectedly defeated Daria Snigur (at that time, 124th place in the WTA, based on the qualification).
Source: Hot News
David Jack is a sports author at 247 News Reel, known for his informative writing on sports topics. With extensive knowledge and experience, he provides readers with a deep understanding of the latest sports advancements and trends. David’s insightful articles have earned him a reputation as a skilled and reliable writer.