Yevgeny Kafelnikov teams up with Nick Kyrgios: the result is a new harsh attack against Iga Swiatek and Jannik Sinner regarding the controversial Clostebol and TMZ doping issues.
Already in recent days the Russian had posted on his X profile: “Sometimes I ask myself, but why the hell I haven’t used steroids throughout my career. So maybe instead of 170 matches a year I could have played maybe 300?”
Jannik Sinner, ATP Finals 2023© Stream screenshot
But now he went beyond. He has asked for a lifetime ban for anyone caught using prohibited substances. Kafelnikov actually wrote on X with a clear reference to Sinner and Swiatek, even without naming them:
“There should be a lifetime ban for anyone caught using banned substances! No excuses and zero tolerance, no matter who you are. The saddest part of all this is that young and emerging players (12-16 years old) look at their idols and think that maybe it is normal to use steroids in the future and get away with it. Current players are setting a bad example for the younger generations.”
The Russian’s post was re-shared by Nick Kyrgios on his X profile. The Australian also wrote, in response to the former Russian legend: “Yes,” feeling in agreement with Kafelnikov’s words.
Iga Swiatek© Iga Swiatek/Instagram – Fair Use
The two-time Slam champion, finally, responded to a user who pointed out that in his time anti-doping controls were softer than today, writing: “I was tested 15-20 times a year (from 1996 to 2002) during competitions and even off-season. You clearly have no idea what you’re talking about.”
Iga tested positive in an out-of-competition test last August, and has already served 25 days of her ban (she has 6 days left). Jannik will have to wait at least until mid-February, when CAS will have to give its verdict following a WADA appeal. The Italian risks 1-2 years of disqualification.
Tennis World USA