Iga Swiatek has expressed fear over the public reaction to her positive drug test for verboden substances after accepting a one-month suspension.
The world number 2 tested positive during an out-of-competition sample in August and received a one-month suspension from the ITIA.
The results were revealed as Swiatek was ranked world number 1, but the ITIA admitted the result was caused by contamination in its sleep medication.
Iga Swiatek faces Jessica Pegula of the United States. Getty
His suspension, which ended on December 4, allows him to participate in all tournaments in Australia.
Ahead of her United Cup campaign, the five-time Grand Slam winner expressed gratitude for the positive public reaction regarding her doping case.
“The reaction in Poland, which is basically what I’m reading, has been quite sustained,” Swiatek said.
“I really appreciate it because, you know, when I missed the tournament in China and no one knew why, it wasn’t easy.
“After the news about my case came out, I was worried that most people would turn their backs on me, but I felt support and it’s great.”
Swiatek’s results came months after men’s world No. 1 Jannik Sinner escaped punishment for two positive tests for anabolic steroids, a decision contested by WADA.
Asked about the differences between her case and Sinner’s, Swiatek said she saw “no reason” for WADA to challenge her situation.
“I was suspended for a long time and lost my number one spot because of it,” she said.
“I also know that the procedure worked and I provided all the evidence possible.
“Honestly, there’s not much more that can be done. So I don’t expect a call, but I have no influence on what happens.”
Iga Swiatek speaks to the media ahead of her United Cup campaign with Poland. Getty
Sinner’s case has drawn strong criticism from many in tennis, including Australian player Nick Kyrgios, who has been a vocal critic of results management.
However, Swiatek admits that he was not spared criticism from his colleagues and the supposed “double standards” surrounding top players.
“Obviously there are going to be negative comments and you’re not going to avoid that,” she acknowledged.
“It’s something that’s always going to follow us no matter what happens.”
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