A controversial new anti-doping regulation from the International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) has sparked a backlash across the tennis world. It was revealed that players are now required to remain in full view of doping control chaperones—even while showering.
According to Sports Illustrated journalist Jon Wertheim, who shared the update on social media, players have been informed that “showering is not an entitlement.” They must be done under observation if it occurs before submitting a doping control sample.
The ITIA reportedly introduced the rule to prevent athletes from tampering with test procedures, citing past instances in other sports where individuals used showers to avoid detection—such as urinating privately to avoid a positive result. The Professional Footballers’ Association has previously flagged similar concerns in football.
An alleged ITIA statement clarified the reasoning:
“Showering is not an entitlement, and it is for this reason that the ITIA kindly requests that when showering, players adhere to the requirement to stay in full view of the chaperone observing them at all times.”
Players who are uncomfortable with being observed in the shower are advised to consider whether bathing is necessary before proceeding with the sample process.
“Failure to remain in full view of the chaperone will be taken extremely seriously by the ITIA,” the statement warned.
The move has drawn widespread criticism online, with many fans, commentators, and athletes labeling the rule “absolutely bonkers.” Critics argue that the measure invades players’ privacy and undermines basic dignity in the name of anti-doping enforcement.
The ITIA has not yet issued an official public statement on the matter. Metro has reached out for comment but has not received a response.
The controversy comes amid growing scrutiny over doping in tennis, particularly following the suspension of current men’s world No. 1, Jannik Sinner.
Sinner, who won the Australian Open in January 2025, is currently serving a three-month ban for testing positive twice for the banned substance clostebol.
The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) accepted his explanation that the steroid entered his system accidentally via a spray used by his physiotherapist to treat a cut.
WADA acknowledged that Sinner did not intend to cheat but stressed that athletes are responsible for their medical teams.
The 23-year-old is eligible to return to competition in time for the French Open, which starts on May 19.
As the sport battles a string of high-profile doping cases, the ITA’s stricter enforcement methods are drawing both support and concern, raising tough questions about how to balance athlete privacy with testing integrity.
