The International Tennis Integrity Agency's (ITIA) controversial anti-doping policy, which mandates that players shower under the watchful eyes of chaperones, has sparked significant backlash on social media, following doping scandals involving top tennis players Jannik Sinner and Iga Swiatek. The policy, publicized by Sports Illustrated writer Jon Wertheim, drew criticism for being invasive, with many fans finding it 'creepy' and unacceptable. Despite the uproar, some former tennis professionals like Rennae Stubbs and Rajeev Ram noted that such practices have been standard, as players are often observed to maintain the integrity of doping controls. The ITIA defended the policy, emphasizing its compliance with the World Anti-Doping Code and the importance of player welfare, while allowing permissible delays for post-match showers. Both Sinner and Swiatek are returning from suspensions due to doping violations, adding context to the heightened scrutiny of the policy.

The ITIA's policy requiring players to shower in full view of a chaperone to ensure compliance with doping controls has been criticized as intrusive and 'creepy' by fans on social media.

The policy came into the spotlight after Sports Illustrated's Jon Wertheim posted about it online, highlighting its unusual nature and sparking widespread discussion.

Despite the backlash, some former tennis pros, such as Rennae Stubbs and Rajeev Ram, revealed that this practice is not new, as players have historically been monitored closely post-match.

The ITIA argues that observing players during showers is essential for maintaining doping control integrity, aligning with the World Anti-Doping Code, while also allowing for permissible delays like cooling down.

The context for this scrutiny involves recent doping scandals with tennis stars Jannik Sinner and Iga Swiatek, who are both returning from suspensions after testing positive for banned substances.