Doping: WADA is examining possible legalization of cannabis
A meeting of the WADA Executive Committee in Istanbul revealed that the World Anti-Doping Authority will review the status of cannabis on the list of prohibited substances.
by tennisnet.com
last edit: Sep 18, 2021, 10:16 pm
The case of the athlete Sha'Carri Richardson at the Olympic Games could also cause a stir and a topic of conversation in tennis. The 21-year-old sprinter was banned from WADA (World Anti-Doping Agency) for 30 days due to a positive cannabis test and thus missed the competitions at the four-year sports highlight.
Richardson declared her use of the drug to be in a state of "emotional pain" after a reporter brought her news of her mother's death. “I apologize for not knowing how to handle or deal with my emotions during this time. I am human, ”said the American.
No improvement in athletic performance
As a result, criticism of the cannabis ban was voiced by various interest groups. That ban, which was introduced by the International Olympic Committee in 1999 and confirmed by WADA in 2004, could now be lifted. According to experts, the consumption of cannabis does not lead to an improvement in top athletic performance.
The calming effect of cannabis could possibly lead to better regeneration and a higher willingness to take risks in sporting duels. A possible reassessment, which of course would also have an impact on tennis, should not be completed until next year. Until then, the ban on the substance will remain in place.