Grant Hackett whacks WADA, says Shayna Jack would be ‘completely disheartened’

Australian swimming legend Grant Hackett has added his voice to the growing criticism directed at the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) for its handling of the recent doping controversy involving Chinese athletes.

Expressing solidarity with Australian swimmer Shayna Jack, who faced a ban for a positive test, Hackett highlighted what he sees as a credibility issue within WADA. He noted that while Jack had to endure a transparent process, the revelation about 23 Chinese swimmers cleared by WADA only came to light through investigative journalism, raising questions about consistency and transparency.

The controversy emerged after it was disclosed that 23 Chinese swimmers, who had tested positive for a banned substance, were allowed to compete in the Tokyo Olympics due to claims of contamination. Meanwhile, Jack faced a ban for a positive test, despite evidence of contamination.

Hackett emphasized the importance of a consistent and transparent process for all athletes, regardless of nationality, to maintain integrity and fairness in anti-doping measures. He questioned why WADA did not apply the same standards to all cases and called for answers to the unanswered questions surrounding the controversy.

Despite Jack’s ban being lifted, Hackett acknowledged the toll it took on her mental health and well-being, expressing empathy for the ordeal she endured. He emphasized the need for fairness and consistency in anti-doping procedures to prevent similar situations in the future.