Lleyton Hewitt to contest ban over clash with anti-doping official

Australia’s Davis Cup captain and former World No. 1, Lleyton Hewitt, has announced he will challenge the two-week suspension and 30,000 Australian dollars (approx. Rs 17.5 lakh) fine imposed on him after being found guilty of pushing an anti-doping chaperone.

The penalty, issued by the International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA), stems from an incident during Australia’s Davis Cup semi-final against Italy in November 2024. Following the team’s defeat, Hewitt was accused of shoving a 60-year-old volunteer official.

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In its verdict, the tribunal declared Hewitt’s actions “not reasonable and proportionate,” dismissing his defence that the push was accidental and carried out in self-defence.

"I'm just really disappointed about the overall decision but also the whole process to be honest, and the lack of facts that have been put out," Hewitt said before Australia's Davis Cup tie against Belgium.

More details of Lleyton Hewitt’s case

Lleyton Hewitt’s two-week suspension, set for September 24 to October 7, will sideline him from all tennis-related duties but still allow him to lead Australia in their tie against Belgium. The International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) had pushed for a stiffer sanction, citing Hewitt’s combative past and lack of remorse.

The 43-year-old has confirmed he will appeal, arguing the tribunal overlooked “critical facts” and reiterating that he neither acted aggressively nor fairly received due process. Hewitt stressed that he remains committed to his Davis Cup role and will not let the controversy distract from Australia’s campaign.

The tribunal, however, highlighted that Hewitt failed to apologise or check on the 60-year-old chaperone after the clash - an omission that weighed heavily in its verdict. Critics of the former World No. 1 say the case underlines the importance of safeguarding anti-doping officials, while supporters believe Hewitt’s long service and leadership record merit greater consideration.

As a two-time Grand Slam winner and Australia’s longest-serving Davis Cup captain, the ruling has become a high-profile test of Hewitt’s reputation. The appeal will hinge on whether he can substantiate his claim of self-defence or expose flaws in the ITIA process.

For now, the agency stands firm, while Hewitt prepares for a decisive hearing in the weeks ahead.