Dayana Yastremska started her 2021 season in the worst possible way. The Ukrainian beauty was suspended from playing tournaments from the 7th of January after she tested positive for doping with traces in her urine of mesterolone metabolite.
However, Yastremska was confident the suspension would have lifted to have the opportunity to play the Australian Open. For this reason, she decided to fly to Melbourne.
Dayana appealed to the ITF Independent Tribunal and the CAS, but the provisional suspension was not lifted so she will not be able to play the major Down Under.
Dayana also got infected by Covid-19 at the beginning of last December with symptoms. It’s not an easy moment for her.
The Statement
Dayana released the following statement stressing also the fact that she will refund Tennis Australia for the expenses incurred for her travel and staying in Melbourne.
This was Dayana’s statement
“I sadly acknowledge the decision of the CAS to dismiss the expedited appeal to lift my provisional suspension.
I would like to underline that the decisions taken by the ITF Independent Tribunal and the CAS are only related to the provisional suspension.
Now comes the time to defend myself about the matter of the dispute.
My team and I are confident in our ability to prove my innocence as the ITF Independent Tribunal will hear from me, witnesses and experts.
I know my presence in Australia has raised some concerns. The urgent procedure with the ITF Independent Tribunal and the CAS could have lifted my provisional suspension, which would have enabled me to compete at the Australian Open. That’s the reason why I was allowed to travel there.
I can’t express my disappointment about not taking part in the first Slam of the year. I am thankful to the authorities for the conditions they have set for the players in such challenging times. Thus, I intend to return all the expenses engaged by Tennis Australia on my behalf.
I remain determined to demonstrate my innocence and clear my name.
I wish to thank all my fans for their support.”
Dayana Yastremska in 2021
Currently the world no.29, the Ukrainian played her last match on the 9th of November 2020 when she was defeated by Greetje Minnen 6-4 6-3 in the 1st round in Linz (draw).
At present, during this year Dayana has managed to achieve an overall 0-0 match record.
