Emma Raducanu Declines Insect Bite Treatment Over Doping Concerns

The British tennis star avoided using antiseptic spray after allergic reactions, citing fears of unintentional contamination ahead of the Australian Open.

Emma Raducanu chose not to treat severe insect bites with antiseptic spray, fearing potential contamination that could result in a positive doping test.
The decision reflects heightened caution among tennis players following doping cases involving Jannik Sinner and Iga Swiatek last year.
Sinner and Swiatek both tested positive for banned substances but were cleared of intentional wrongdoing; their cases remain under scrutiny by anti-doping authorities.
Raducanu, who has also faced recent injury setbacks, emphasized the challenges athletes face in managing controllable risks while preparing for major tournaments.
She is set to face 26th seed Ekaterina Alexandrova in the first round of the Australian Open, aiming to improve on her past performances at the event.

Deadspin

Australian Broadcasting Corporation