Parikshit Somani banned four years for doping violation

Indian tennis player Parikshit Somani has received a four-year ban following a positive test for trimetazidine, a banned substance on the World Anti-Doping Agency’s Prohibited List. The violation occurred during an ATP Challenger event in Astana, Kazakhstan, on July 31, 2025.

Somani, who reached a career-high doubles ranking of No. 256, attempted to defend himself by claiming the substance entered his system through food contamination. He argued that medicine used by a family member during food preparation led to the positive result. However, an independent tribunal dismissed these claims, describing the theories as ‘scientifically implausible,’ ‘highly speculative,’ and ‘unconvincing.’

The International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) announced that the suspension will last until September 2029. As part of the ruling, Somani’s results from the Astana event and all results obtained since his provisional suspension in September 2025 have been annulled, resulting in the forfeiture of ranking points and prize money. During the ban, he is prohibited from playing in, coaching at, or attending any events organized by the ATP, WTA, Grand Slams, or national federations.