Guillermo Coria of Argentina has been suspended for seven months and fined $98,565 by the ATP after testing positive for the banned substance Nandrolone. The 19-year-old tested positive for the steroid at the Open Seat Godo tournament in Barcelona on 25 April. At the time, he was ranked 30th on the ATP entry system. He is currently ranked number 44.
According to the ATP, Coria's positive test came after he took a nutritional supplement. ATP CEO Mark Miles said that this decision sends a very clear warning about the risks of consuming dietary supplements. Miles said: "Even though the evidence in this case showed that the supplements consumed by Mr Coria were contaminated during manufacturing and did not list the banned substance on the label, he still must pay a significant price through suspension and forfeiture of points and prize money."
Coria has reacted with dismay to the ban. "I am devastated by this penalty, which I consider too harsh in light of the fact I proved to the tribunal that I did everything possible to abide by our anti-doping rules," said Coria who also had some ranking points deducted. "I have not and would never take banned substances to enhance performance," he added.
Filed by Greg McKevitt
