London Former World No.1 and two-time Grand Slam champion Lleyton Hewitt has been suspended for two weeks after pushing an anti-doping official. The International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) confirmed the sanction will run from September 25 to October 7, ensuring it does not “unduly punish” Hewitt by disrupting Australia’s Davis Cup commitments.
The suspension followed an incident in November, when Hewitt, serving as Australia’s captain, pushed a 60-year-old volunteer anti-doping chaperone after his side’s semifinal defeat to Italy.
Hewitt’s Defense and Tribunal Verdict
Hewitt denied the charge, claiming he acted in self-defense. However, the ITIA reviewed video evidence, witness statements, and interviews, later referring the matter to an independent tribunal.
The tribunal upheld the charge of offensive conduct, ruling that Hewitt’s behavior “did not meet the requirements of self-defense” and was “not reasonable and proportionate.”
The tribunal fined the 44-year-old Hewitt $20,000 and banned him for two weeks. He cannot take part in any tennis-related activities during this period. The suspension covers coaching, mentoring, playing, and his role as captain.
Impact on Davis Cup and Future Appeal
Hewitt will miss crucial build-up to the Davis Cup as Australia face Belgium on September 13–14 in Sydney, a tie that will decide qualification for the last eight of the Finals.
Despite the setback, Hewitt retains the right to appeal the verdict. Known for his fierce competitiveness, the 2001 US Open and 2002 Wimbledon champion has yet to comment publicly on whether he will challenge the ruling.
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