Leny Mitjana Faces 10-Year Ban for Alleged Tennis Match-Fixing

Prepare to be stunned by the seismic shockwave rippling through the tennis world as we unveil the harrowing tale of French tennis player Leny Mitjana.

Accused of engaging in a staggering 11 separate incidents of match-fixing, Mitjana now faces a monumental 10-year ban imposed by the International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA). This riveting exposé delves deep into the intricate web of corruption and match-fixing offenses that have sent shockwaves through the tennis community. Join us on this gripping journey as we uncover the dramatic events leading to Mitjana’s unprecedented ban.

Unveiling the Ban

The International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) has wielded its authority, dealing French player Leny Mitjana a crushing blow—a 10-year suspension coupled with a substantial $20,000 fine. These punitive measures stem from Mitjana’s alleged transgressions against the Tennis Anti-Corruption Program (TACP), encompassing a staggering total of 11 separate incidents.

Collusion and Syndicate Exposure

The ITIA’s actions were not taken in isolation. They collaborated with Belgian authorities to unearth a nefarious match-fixing syndicate operating in Belgium. The syndicate’s ringleader, Grigor Sargsyan, received a five-year custodial sentence, shedding light on the gravity of the allegations.

Severe Restrictions Imposed

Mitjana’s ban is all-encompassing, prohibiting him from participating in, coaching, or even attending any tennis event sanctioned by ITIA members, including the likes of ATP, ITF, WTA, Tennis Australia, French Tennis Federation, Wimbledon, and USTA, along with any national association. This sweeping restriction took effect on December 22, 2023.

The Extensive Breaches

Mitjana’s violations spanned various sections of the TACP, including D.1.b, D.1.d, D.1.e, and D.2.a.i. These breaches primarily revolved around match-fixing activities, such as influencing players, facilitating sports betting, manipulating match outcomes, and failing to report corrupt activities. Shockingly, these offenses unfolded between 2017 and 2018.

The Courtroom Showdown

The courtroom drama unfolded on November 8, 2023, with Anti-Corruption Hearing Officer Phillipe Cavalieros presiding over the proceedings. Throughout the trial, Mitjana vehemently denied all charges, steadfastly maintaining his innocence.

A Career Altered

Mitjana, who once reached a career-high world singles ranking of 458 in 2018, now finds his professional journey marred by this resounding ban. It extends its shadow over all professional tennis events until December 21, 2033, encompassing tournaments authorized or sanctioned by ITIA members or any national association.

Parallel Actions

In a parallel development, Slovenian tennis official Marko Ducman found himself in the crosshairs of the ITIA, receiving a parallel 10-year suspension for multiple breaches of the TACP. These simultaneous actions underscore the ITIA’s unwavering commitment to preserving the integrity of the sport, sending a stern message to those who would compromise it.