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Simona Halep's return to tennis has been confirmed, with the Romanian slated to compete at the Miami Open, which will begin on March 20. This announcement follows the reduction of her doping ban.
Halep faced a four-year ban initially due to two separate anti-doping rule violations. However, the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) in Lausanne recently ruled to reduce her suspension to nine months, a duration she has already completed.
Rumors then started circulating that the former World No. 1 might make a comeback on the WTA Tour soon, with talk of Miami Open director James Blake extending an invitation to her.
On March 8, Simona Halep confirmed via her Instagram that she will indeed be competing in the WTA 1000 tournament later this month where she has been granted a wild card entry.
"I’m thrilled to let you all know that I will be making my return to the WTA Tour in two weeks at the @miamiopen! Thank you to the tournament for giving me this opportunity and I cannot wait to be back on court and competing. See you all soon!" Halep wrote.
Simona Halep: "I am eager to turn this page and rejoin the tour with renewed vigor and an invigorated spirit"
Since testing positive for roxadustat—a banned drug that stimulates red blood cell production—during the 2022 US Open, Simona Halep has consistently maintained her innocence. On March 6, the day her doping ban was reduced, the Romanian once again reiterated her stance via her Instagram account.
"Despite facing daunting accusations and formidable opposition, my spirit remained buoyant, anchored in my unwavering conviction of being a clean athlete. This ordeal has been a testament to resilience, and the triumph of truth is a bittersweet vindication that, albeit delayed, is immensely gratifying," she wrote.
The two-time Grand Slam champion then thanked her legal team, sponsor, fans, colleagues and the Romanian community for their support. She also expressed her eagerness to move forward and return to the WTA Tour with renewed "vigor and spirit."
"I extend my heartfelt gratitude to my legal team, whose steadfast faith and exceptional dedication have been instrumental in navigating through these turbulent times. Equally, my sponsors, loyal fans, and some commendable competitors have been my pillars of strength, offering unwavering support and solidarity," Simona Halep wrote.
"The overwhelming backing from so many Romanians has also fortified my resolve, enabling me to champion this cause to a rightful and honorable conclusion. Looking forward, I am eager to turn this page and rejoin the tour with renewed vigor and an invigorated spirit. With love and gratitude, Simona ❤️🎾 #ContaminatedWithIntegrity", she added.
