The International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) has issued a statement announcing the suspension of Italian tennis player Andrea Rita for a period of 15 months. This ruling follows Rita’s admission of violating the Tennis Anti-Corruption Program (TACP).
Rita, whose highest ITF singles ranking was 1712 in June 2023 and is currently unranked on the ATP Tour, acknowledged four infringements of the TACP occurring between 2018 and 2020. These infractions encompassed betting on tennis matches and neglecting to report a corrupt approach. As part of the penalty, Rita has been levied with a $5,000 fine, with $4,000 of the fine being suspended.
The 23-year-old player fully collaborated with the ITIA investigation and accepted the imposed sanction, thereby forgoing the opportunity for a hearing before an independent Anti-Corruption Hearing Officer. Rita’s period of ineligibility commenced on 26 January 2024 and will conclude on 25 April 2025.
Throughout this duration, Rita is prohibited from engaging in, coaching at, or attending any tennis event authorized or sanctioned by the members of the ITIA, including the ATP, ITF, WTA, Tennis Australia, Fédération Française de Tennis, Wimbledon, USTA, and any national association.
Established by tennis members, the ITIA serves as an autonomous entity dedicated to advancing, promoting, improving, and safeguarding the integrity of professional tennis worldwide.
The ITIA’s determination to suspend Rita functions as a reminder of the stringent regulations implemented to preserve the honesty and equitability of the sport. It also underscores the repercussions that athletes may encounter for failing to comply with the anti-corruption guidelines established by the governing bodies.
For the most recent updates and news on tennis integrity, please visit the ITIA’s official website.
Published 23 February 2024 14:50