“Bittersweet vindication that, albeit delayed, is immensely gratifying” – Halep excited to rejoin tour with invigorated spirit

Two-time Grand Slam champion and former world No 1 Simona Halep described the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) decision to reduce her doping ban from four years to nine months as “bittersweet vindication that, albeit delayed, is immensely gratifying” and said she was looking forward to coming back to the game with renewed vigour and invigorated spirit.

The decision of CAS means that Halep is now free to return to competition effective immediately having already been out of the game for 18 months.

“Today marks a pivotal moment, as the tribunal has rendered its verdict, affirming my stance and bringing clarity to this chapter. (1) In a unanimous decision, the tribunal has cleared me of any wrongdoing regarding the blood doping allegations. (2) It was also unanimously determined that the unfortunate incident of the roxadustat positive test stemmed from inadvertent supplement contamination, leading to a reduced sanction of nine months. (3) Furthermore, the tribunal has directed ITIA to compensate me with CHF 20,000,” Halep said in her statement released on Instagram.

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The overwhelming backing from so many Romanians has also fortified my resolve, enabling me to champion this cause to a rightful and honorable conclusion.

Simona Halep

“In the midst of this challenging journey, my unwavering belief in the integrity of the truth and in the principles of justice has been my beacon. Despite facing daunting accusations and formidable opposition, my spirit remained buoyant, anchored in my unwavering conviction of being a clean athlete. This ordeal has been a testament to resilience, and the triumph of truth is a bittersweet vindication that, albeit delayed, is immensely gratifying.”

The Romanian also expressed gratitude to her legal team, supporters and fans for standing by her during the difficult time.

“I extend my heartfelt gratitude to my legal team, whose steadfast faith and exceptional dedication have been instrumental in navigating through these turbulent times. Equally, my sponsors, loyal fans, and some commendable competitors have been my pillars of strength, offering unwavering support and solidarity The overwhelming backing from so many Romanians has also fortified my resolve, enabling me to champion this cause to a rightful and honorable conclusion. Looking forward, I am eager to turn this page and rejoin the tour with renewed vigor and an invigorated spirit,” Halep concluded in the statement which she ended with the hashtag #ContaminatedWithIntegrity.

There has been no definite schedule for Halep’s return as of now.

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