Simona Halep Banned for Four Years Over Anti-Doping Violations
Two-time Grand Slam champion Simona Halep has been handed a four-year ban by an independent tribunal following multiple breaches of the Tennis Anti-Doping Programme. The 31-year-old Romanian tennis sensation was found to have committed “intentional” anti-doping violations.
Halep has vehemently denied any wrongdoing and announced her intention to appeal the decision at the Court of Arbitration for Sport. In a statement, she expressed her determination to clear her name of what she referred to as “false allegations” and affirmed her commitment to training during the suspension period.
The anti-doping violations that led to Halep’s ban include a positive test for roxadustat during last year’s US Open and the use of an unspecified prohibited substance or method in 2022, triggered by irregularities in her biological passport. While Halep argued that a contaminated supplement caused the positive test, the tribunal concluded that this explanation did not account for the concentration of roxadustat found in her urine sample. Roxadustat is an anti-anaemia drug that stimulates the production of red blood cells in the body.
Gareth Southgate Defends Harry Maguire Amid Criticism
England manager Gareth Southgate has come to the defence of Harry Maguire, condemning what he referred to as the “ridiculous treatment” the defender has endured in recent times. Maguire, who recently scored an own goal in England’s friendly win over Scotland, has faced criticism and scrutiny, particularly during his challenging period at Manchester United.
Southgate praised Maguire’s contributions to the England national team, highlighting his role in the 2018 World Cup semi-finals and the Euro 2020 final. The manager emphasised Maguire’s importance among the senior players and lauded his resilience on the field. He also expressed gratitude for the support of England’s fans.
Maguire’s club career has seen ups and downs, including being stripped of the Manchester United captaincy and facing transfer speculation. However, Southgate defended the player, attributing some of the criticism to “our own commentators, pundits, or whatever it is.” Southgate acknowledged the support from England’s fans and their understanding of the situation.
Tom Curry Suspended for England’s Rugby World Cup Matches
England’s rugby team faces a setback as Tom Curry, a key player in the squad, has been suspended for the next two Rugby World Cup matches. The decision comes after Curry received a red card in the match against Argentina.
Curry, aged 25, initially received a yellow card for a tackle on Juan Cruz Mallia during the first three minutes of the game. However, following a review, the yellow card was upgraded to a red card. An independent disciplinary committee imposed a three-match ban on Curry, which can be reduced to two games if he completes the World Rugby coaching program on tackling.
This suspension means that Curry will miss England’s upcoming Pool C matches against Japan and Chile but will be eligible to return for the final group game against Samoa on October 7th. England will need to adapt without one of their star players as they navigate their Rugby World Cup campaign.’
