ITIA bans Marinko Matosevic for four years over blood doping offences

Former Australian number one Marinko Matosevic has been banned from tennis for four years by the International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) following multiple anti-doping rule breaches.

The 40-year-old was found guilty of five infractions between 2018 and 2020, including using a banned blood doping method and advising other players on how to evade positive tests.

An independent tribunal ruled that the former world number 39 must also forfeit prize money and ranking points earned at two ATP Challenger events in February 2018.

Coaching career halted by tribunal

Matosevic originally retired from professional competition in 2018 to transition into a coaching role.

However, this strict suspension means the former ATP Most Improved Player of the Year cannot participate in or attend any sanctioned tennis event until March 15, 2030.

Independent tribunal chair Michael Heron KC noted that the severe infractions were highly premeditated.

His actions went far beyond passive association and constitute intentional participation.

Michael Heron KC

Player hits out at ‘corrupt’ process

Despite initially refuting the allegations, the Australian athlete eventually confessed to a single charge of blood doping on social media prior to his scheduled hearing.

In a defiant public statement, the disgraced coach accused the investigative body of unjust practices and relying on outdated text messages.

I am writing this letter to let the tennis world know how corrupt and unjust the ITIA process is.

Marinko Matosevic

The independent tribunal comprehensively dismissed all of his claims regarding the integrity of the investigation.

Background to the ban

Matosevic turned professional in 2003 and reached his career-high ranking of 39 a decade later during a peak period for Australian men’s tennis.

This overarching ban now covers all events authorised by major governing bodies, including the ATP, WTA, ITF, and Wimbledon.