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Misunderstanding Australian Davis Cup members refuse drug test
Posted: Wednesday December 01, 1999 11:55 AM
NICE, France (Reuters) -- Australian players preparing for the Davis Cup final against France refused to undergo a drugs test on Wednesday because of a misunderstanding over doping procedures, organizers said. Two doctors went to the players' hotel for the tests, said Christian Dixin, the official in charge of the organization for this weekend's final. "There are two elements in this case. There is an agreement between the International Tennis Federation (ITF) and the French Sports Ministry about doping tests stating that they should take place during the three days of competition proper," he added. "The Australians were aware of this agreement," he added. "But there is also a deal between the French and Australian governments which says that any athlete from either country can be random-tested at any time in France or Australia. "This is an agreement that the Australian team says they are unaware of." Australian captain John Newcombe confirmed the misunderstanding. "Apparently, an agreement has existed since September between our two countries, but we did not know about it. But I have no objection to the tests taking place," he said.
"The ITF was also unaware of it, which added to the problem. In tennis, we play in many different countries and are not always aware of the different rules," he added.
Copyright 2003 Reuters Limited. All rights reserved.
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