Swiatek talks about the anti-doping system: "After a few years, you think about it all the time"

Tested positive for trimetazidine last August during the WTA 1000 in Cincinnati, Iga Swiatek subsequently accepted a one-month suspension at the end of last year and was able to resume competition normally at the beginning of 2025 at the United Cup, before the Australian Open.

Speaking at a pre-tournament press conference in Madrid, where she will face Alexandra Eala in her opening match, the Polish player, ranked number 2 in the world, was asked about the anti-doping testing system.

"Honestly, after a few years, you think about it all the time. It makes you a little anxious. I'm not just talking about myself, because I've gotten used to the system and have been through the worst, but I was able to come back and face it, which makes me feel like nothing can stop me.

I'm also talking about other players. It's not easy, the whole system is very tough. I didn't have much control over what happened to me, and I can imagine other players fear it could happen to them.

Sometimes it's difficult to stay on top of everything concerning whereabouts and what needs to be done at the system level. Every day, when we travel, we literally have to say where we are.

If we forget, we risk getting a 'no-show,’ and three 'no-shows' lead to a sanction. The pressure is intense, and it's not easy to manage, but that's how it is," she assured the media before starting the defense of her title in Spain.