Kazakh Tennis Player Receives Four-Year Ban for Doping

Kazakhstan's young tennis talent, Arslanbek Aitkulov, has been suspended for four years following an anti-doping ruling by the International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA). The agency disclosed that Aitkulov tested positive for ligandrol, a muscle-building research chemical, and the stimulant methylhexanamine.

The 21-year-old athlete reached his highest men's singles ranking at 1,250 in November 2023, representing notable progress in his budding career. However, positive results at a lower-tier event in Qatar prompted a provisional suspension last year.

While the investigation has now concluded, the imposed ban will bar Aitkulov from participating in professional tennis until March 2028. This case underscores the ITIA's commitment to maintaining integrity in the sport.

(With inputs from agencies.)