The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) has raised significant concerns about the integrity of clean sport in the United States, urging a complete overhaul of the country's anti-doping framework. The call for \"root and branch\" reforms specifically targets the U.S. Anti-Doping Agency (USADA) and its role in protecting athletes.
In a letter addressed to USADA board chair Tobie Smith last Friday, WADA highlighted that a staggering 90 percent of U.S. athletes compete without the assurance of being under the World Anti-Doping Code's protection. This lack of coverage raises serious questions about the effectiveness of current anti-doping measures in the nation.
WADA's concerns are further backed by a July letter from 32 national and regional anti-doping organizations across Europe, Asia, and Africa. These organizations expressed worry that U.S. athletes are participating in major events like the Olympics and world championships without adequate pre-event testing, potentially undermining fair competition on the global stage.
\"It is surely time to address these issues that directly concern USADA and U.S. athletes,\" WADA emphasized, calling for immediate action to ensure that all athletes receive the protection and testing they deserve.
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WADA calls for 'root and branch' reforms of U.S. anti-doping system
cgtn.com
