The Japan Times - Ex-Wimbledon champion Vondrousova banned four years for refusing drugs test

Vondrousova did not submit a sample when notified by a doping control officer during an out-of-competition test attempt at her home in December 2025.

The 26-year-old Czech, who won Wimbledon in 2023, said stress and poor mental health had affected her decision making, in addition to concerns for her safety.

An independent tribunal considered Vondrousova's claims, as well as testimony from the Doping Control Officer who attempted to conduct the test.

The tribunal concluded that the evidence offered "no compelling justification" for the world number 122 to refuse the test.

International Tennis Integrity Agency 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."

Vondrousova's suspension will end on June 21, 2030.

During her ban, the Czech is not allowed to play in, coach at, or attend any events organised or sanctioned by the ITF, WTA, ATP, the Grand Slams, or any national association.

Vondrousova, who has won three WTA Tour singles titles, became the first unseeded player to clinch the Wimbledon women's singles title when she defeated Ons Jabeur in straight sets in the final three years ago.

She also reached the French Open final in 2019, losing to Ashleigh Barty, and earned a silver medal in the 2021 Tokyo Olympics.

Vondrousova reached a career high sixth place in the WTA rankings in 2023.

She has played just two matches on the WTA Tour this year.

K.Tanaka--JT