Czech star will 'decide on next course of action' after four-year ban; receives support from top players

(Getty/Clive Brunskill)

Former Wimbledon champion Markéta Vondroušová will "review the written reasons" provided by the International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) after copping a four-year ban for a doping-test no-show.

In December 2025, the Czech star denied a doping officer entry to her home to conduct the test, as she argued that the officer failed to follow "protocol".

Vondroušová was fearful of a similar incident occurring to that of fellow Czech, Petra Kvitová, who was stabbed in her apartment in 2016, adding that "in that moment it was about feeling safe, not about avoiding anything."

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International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) CEO, Karen Moorhouse, said: "We understand that the testing process is uncomfortable, and acknowledge that it is an additional burden for players whose jobs already come with a high level of pressure and scrutiny, but it is essential to protect fair competition.

"Safety and welfare of players and our testers is really important to us. Our testers are well-trained, professional, and the gender of our testing witness always matches the player. They carry ID at all times, and players are able to verify their identity in other ways if they are ever unsure."

Shortly after the ITIA's release, it was Vondroušová's turn to speak.

"I have never doped, I have never had a positive test. Throughout my entire career, I have undergone countless anti-doping controls and have always stepped onto the court with a clear conscience," Vondroušová wrote in a statement on social media.

"I cannot say what comes next. For the first time in my life, I do not have a plan."

Players such as Coco Gauff, Marta Kostyuk, Eva Lys, Paula Badosa, Ons Jabeur reacted in the comments with heart emojis, while Sorana Cîrstea wrote: "I can't believe this. We are with you."

The 26-year-old has right to appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).

Per The Athletic's Charlie Eccleshare, Vondroušová's lawyer Jan Exner said in a statement via text message that: "We will review the written reasons and decide on our next course of action. First, we must consult with Markéta; I do not want to speculate on further steps at this moment."

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