American tennis player Wayne Odesnik will be able to play again after the International Tennis Federation (ITF) reduced his suspension to one year. The federation announced that Odesnik can now compete because his suspension was backdated December 29, 2009. He was slapped with a 2-year suspension for illegal importation and possession of human growth hormone. Even if he was not caught positive for the substance, the sports federation still recommended a 2-year suspension. His points and prize money were forfeited since he was still allowed to compete in the U.S. claycourt championships while the investigation is on going.

Odesnik later pleaded guilty to the illegal importation of human growth hormone in Australia. He was caught trying to bring in to the country 8 vials of HGH product containing 6 mg each. He was also fined more than 8,000 Australian dollars. The tennis player told the ITF that he purchased HGH for the treatment of his recurring injury.

The ITF Sanction

The ITF justified that the reduction of Odesnik’s suspension was due to his cooperation in the anti-doping program of the sports organization. His substantial assistance to the enforcement of professional rules of conduct like uncovering of other offenses was the basis of the decision.

The ITF can reduce any sanction up to 75% provided the player will help them. An excerpt from rule m.5.3 states that a player’s suspension can be suspended where the Participant has provided Substantial Assistance to the ITF or other Anti-Doping Organisation, a criminal authority or a professional disciplinary body that results in discovering or establishing an anti-doping rule violation by another Person or that results in a criminal authority or disciplinary body discovering or establishing a criminal offence.

12 Months: Conditional

The reduction of Odesnik’s suspension is conditional. The ITF clarified that the remaining 12 months are only suspended while Odesnik is still doing his task helping the federation. The ITF’s director of science and technology Stuart Miller said the suspension is temporary lifted and Odesnik is required to cooperate with the authorities. Greg Couch of Fanhouse asked Miller if they can provide the specifics of Odesnik’s role but the latter declined to give more information. “The magnitude of that will take some time to be fully determined. No, I can’t provide you with that for obvious reasons, because of the sensitive nature of the information provided. Any investigations (resulting from) that information would be compromised,” said Miller.

Odesnik Thankful

Wayne Odesnik issued a statement through his lawyer, Christopher Lyons. “I am thrilled that I can return to the game and compete in the sport about which I am truly passionate. I have learned a lot during my time away from competitive tennis and I know have even a greater appreciation for what a privilege it is to be a professional athlete,” said Odesnik.

He also thanked his family and friends for supporting him while he was suspended for HGH. “I want to take this opportunity to thank my family, true close friends and fans who have stood by me during this difficult time; I am deeply grateful and humbled by your support,” added Odesnik.

Lyons told the media that the tennis player was training in Argentina and hoping to resume his career immediately. Other tennis players are hoping that Odesnik will come back HGH free.

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