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New Delhi: Two-time Grand Slam champion Lleyton Hewitt was handed a suspension of two weeks and a fine of A$30,000 (Rs. 17.48 lakh approx.) after pushing an anti-doping official. Hewitt's suspension will be in effect from September 25 to October 7.
Hewitt engaged with a 60-year-old volunteer anti-doping chaperone and was accused of pushing the official after his side lost the semi-final match to Italy. Firstly, Hewitt denied the accusation and claimed his action was self-defense.
However, in the International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITA) investigation report which included a video analysis, witness interviews, and statements, Hewitt was found guilty. The report determined that his actions breached Article 7.15.1.1 of the Tennis Anti-Doping Programme (TADP).
The case was reviewed by Michael Heron KC, and some sessions were held in June and July in Sydney. The verdict stated that Hewitt's act didn't lie in the self-defence category.
"Anti-doping personnel play a fundamental role behind the scenes in upholding the integrity of tennis, and they should be able to go about their roles without fear of physical contact," ITIA CEO Karen Moorhouse said in a statement.
The suspension of Hewitt will be effective from September 24 until October 7, which will allow him to play in the Davis Cup, as Australia will host Belgium in the second round of the qualifier in Sydney, starting from September 13-14.
His suspension will stop him from taking part in all tennis activities, including playing, mentorship, coaching, and other associated roles in tennis.
Hewitt is a former No. 1-ranked tennis star and two-time Grand Slam winner, as he won the US Open and Wimbledon in 2001 and 2002, respectively, in the singles category.
He also has the right to appeal for the charges made by the ITIA, but the association stated that, currently, no appeal has been registered yet.
