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Iga Swiatek accepts one-month tennis suspension after testing positive for banned substance

Iga Swiatek accepts one-month tennis suspension after testing positive for banned substance

Iga Swiatek has accepted a one-month ban from tennis after testing positive for a banned substance.

The world number two tested positive for the heart medication trimetazidine (TMZ) in August but the International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) accepted that it was caused by contamination of the non-prescription medication melatonin - which the French Open champion took for jet lag and sleep issues.

Swiatek's level of fault was considered to be at the lowest end of the range for 'No Significant or Negligence', which lead to her light punishment.

She said on Instagram: "In the last 2.5 months, I was subject to strict ITIA proceedings, which confirmed my innocence.

"The only positive doping test in my career, showing unbelievably low level of a banned substance I’ve never heard about before, put everything I’ve worked so hard for my entire life into question.

"Both me and my team had to deal with tremendous stress and anxiety. Now everything has been carefully explained, and with a clean slate I can go back to what I love most.

"I know I will be stronger than ever. I’m leaving with you a long video and right now I’m just relieved it’s over.

"I want to be open with you, even though I know I did nothing wrong. Out of respect for my fans and the public, I’m sharing all the details of this longest and toughest tournament of my career.

"My biggest hope is that you will stay with me."

Swiatek admits that the suspension was tough to take as she had hoped to be an "example for generations to come".

She said: "I admit this situation hit me hard because all my life I strived to have a career that could be an example for generations to come.

"I have a sense this situation could undermine the image I've been building for years, which is why I hope you will understand I had no control over it and could do nothing to prevent this unfortunate turn of events.

"Without my supporters I am not sure I would have been able to find the strength to carry on and keep fighting. Now I have fought the toughest battle in my life, and I hope you will stay with me and keep supporting me."

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