Full Breakdown
Argentine Tennis Pro Facundo Bagnis Accepts 12-Month Doping Suspension
7/14/2026, 12:13:34 AM
Violation and Sanction
During the United States Open qualifying tournament in August 2025, 36-year-old Argentine player Facundo Bagnis tested positive for hydrochlorothiazide, a diuretic and masking agent listed by the World Anti-Doping Agency. Although a provisional suspension was not mandatory for this substance, Bagnis entered a voluntary provisional suspension on 18 October 2025. After an investigation, the International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) offered a 12-month suspension, which Bagnis accepted and waived his right to an independent hearing. The ban runs until 17 October 2026, with the period of provisional suspension counted as time served.
Explanation and ITIA Findings
In November 2025, Bagnis informed the ITIA that a doctor-prescribed, bespoke supplement—produced by an Argentine pharmacy and recommended for digestive issues—had been contaminated. He supplied medical records, purchase receipts, communications with his doctor, and independent laboratory reports confirming the presence of hydrochlorothiazide in the supplement. An ITIA-accredited lab verified the contamination, and the agency concluded the violation was “not intentional.” Considering the mitigating evidence and precedent from similar cases, the ITIA reduced the sanction from the standard four-year period to twelve months.
Career Background
Bagnis reached a career-high ATP singles ranking of No. 55 in November 2016 and has twice been an ATP Tour runner-up. He advanced to the third round of the 2021 US Open and, in September 2025, defeated world No. 149 Francesco Maestrelli 6-3 3-6 6-2 at the Antofagasta Challenger, posting a 16-13 record for the year. He is currently ranked No. 431.
Player’s Own Statement (Verbatim Quotes)
- “One of the hardest moments of my professional career.” — Facundo Bagnis
- “The news of my failed test came as a complete surprise.” — Facundo Bagnis
- “I would never knowingly take any prohibited substance.” — Facundo Bagnis
- “I have complete confidence in my innocence and in the truth coming to light, leading to a fair outcome.” — Facundo Bagnis
Impact and Future Eligibility
While suspended, Bagnis is barred from playing, coaching, or attending any events sanctioned by World Tennis, the ATP, the WTA, the Grand Slams, or national associations. Upon the expiration of his ban on 17 October 2026, he will be eligible to return to competition, subject to standard re-entry procedures.
