ITIA to implement stricter anti-doping rules for tennis players

The International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) is introducing updated anti-doping regulations for professional tennis players, with significant changes set to take effect in January 2027. A key adjustment involves the Registered Testing Pool (RTP). To balance WADA compliance with the unpredictable nature of tennis schedules, the ITIA will reduce the size of the RTP. Approximately 80 percent of current RTP members will move to an expanded testing group that is not required to provide a daily 60-minute window for testing during competitions.

Players remaining in the reduced RTP must provide a daily 60-minute window both during and outside of competitions, aligning them with athletes in other sports. Regardless of their group, all players must still provide samples upon request by a doping control officer; failure to comply can result in suspensions of up to four years.

The new rules also aim to provide better protection for players who can prove a positive test resulted from contaminated food, drink, medication, or environment. Additionally, the framework will allow for more flexible sanctions focused on rehabilitation for the use of recreational drugs that do not impact athletic performance.