Matilda banned for doping violation

Professional Footballers Australia has called for an anti-doping system that meets its “stated objectives” after Matildas veteran Aivi Luik was banned for three months for a doping violation.

The alleged offence reportedly took place two years ago when Luik, who at the time was playing for Italian club Pomigliano, had a painkilling injection for a back injury.

The injection was approved as it contained a substance that was only considered prohibited if in administered on the day of a match.

However, due to a reported mistake the club made in applying for the wrong exemption certificate, Luik did not play for the remainder of a season that was close to finishing and therefore did not have a drug test.

Luik’s contract with Pomigliano then expired and she joined Swedish outfit Hacken.

However, in April this year she received an email from Nado Italia, Italy’s anti-doping organisation, to inform her that she would have to serve a three-month suspension for a doping breach.

It led to Luik having to inform then Matildas coach Tony Gustavsson that she was unavailable for selection for the Paris Olympics, although a hamstring injury had been given as the reason for her not being considered for the squad.

“I was just so scared of the thought that maybe something like this comes out during the Olympic tournament and what that would do for the girls and the team in general,” Luik told The Sports Ambassador podcast.

“There was no way I could do that, I had to call up Tony and just pull my name from selection.”

Luik, who was in the Matildas 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup squad, is weighing up whether to appeal the ban through the Court of Arbitration for Sport, while the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) is reportedly reviewing the case.

PFA co-chief executive officers Kathryn Gill and Beau Busch vowed to support the “brave” Luik.

“The PFA acknowledges the bravery of our member Aivi Luik to tell her story in the wake of her recent doping suspension,” Gill and Busch said in a joint statement.

“Aivi has been in constant contact with the PFA throughout this difficult period and we will continue to ensure she is supported with the full resources of the players’ association.

“Aivi’s case further highlights the need to establish an anti-doping system that respects the fundamental rights of athletes and is effective in pursuing its stated objectives.

“In speaking out, Aivi has once again demonstrated the courage and character she has always shown on and off the pitch.”