“Astonished and Under Shock”: Dayana Yastremska Provisionally Suspended From WTA Tour

Young Ukrainian star Dayana Yastremska has been provisionally suspended by the International Tennis Federation for doping. The latest test, conducted in November, contained the performance-enhancing drug, Mesterolone Metabolite, which has been banned by the World Anti-Doping Agency(WADA). The player though has clearly denied taking any form of performance enhancement drugs.

In a statement released by ITF, Yastremska has been charged under Article 8.3.1 of the 2020 Tennis Anti-Doping Programme. She is provisionally suspended until the full hearing.

“Dayana Yastremska has been provisionally suspended under Article 8.3.1(c) of the 2020 Tennis Anti-Doping Programme (the “Programme”), pending determination of the charge against her at a full hearing pursuant to Article 8 of the Programme.”

Dayana Yastremska released her statement

Yastremska has given her statement on her Twitter account. The Ukrainian has clearly stated that she has never taken performance-enhancing drugs, or any prohibited substances.

“I firmly state that I have never used any performance-enhancing drugs or any prohibited substances.”

The 20-year-old is shocked by the news. She also revealed that only a small quantity of mesterolone metabolite was found in her urine.

“I am astonished and under shock, particularly given that two weeks prior to this test — on 9 November 2020 —I tested negative at the WTA event in Linz. After this last tournament of the year, I stopped practicing to rest prior to the start of the new season.

“Only a very low concentration of mesterolone metabolite was detected in my urine. Given that low concentration and given my negative test two weeks earlier, I have received scientific advice that the result is consistent with some form of a contamination event.”

Yastremska is taking scientific advice and her team will decide the further procedure. She has the right to apply to the Chair of the Independent Tribunal to review her case again, and here she can attempt to prove her innocence.

“However, I am currently working with my team and you can be assured that I am resolutely determined to do everything to clear my name.”

Yastremska is provisionally suspended until further notice. The 20-year-old was one of the young players to watch out for. If found guilty, Yastremska could be banned for several years.

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