Marko Ducman, a Slovenian tennis umpire, has been subjected to a 10-year suspension due to his involvement in corrupt activities related to betting on matches and manipulating match data. The International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) made this announcement on Thursday, citing breaches of the Tennis Anti-Corruption Program (TACP). Mr. Ducman, who had previously held official positions at ITF, ATP, and WTA tournaments, was placed under provisional ban after admitting to violating the program.
The bronze-level official admitted to four instances of misconduct, including betting on matches and tampering with match data while officiating in order to facilitate betting. Additionally, he has been fined $75,000, with $56,250 of the fine being suspended. This disclosure has dealt a blow to the integrity of tennis officiating and acts as a stark reminder of the stringent measures in place to combat corruption within the sport.