Key facts
- Gudaf Tsegay, a two-time world champion and Olympic medalist, has been banned for four months.
- The ban stems from a doping violation involving the substance Letrozole.
- Tsegay tested positive in December but provided medical documentation for the medication.
- She failed to request a therapeutic use exemption in advance.
- The suspension runs through September, ending her competitive season.
Two-time world champion and Olympic medalist Gudaf Tsegay has received a four-month ban for a doping violation, effectively concluding her competitive season. The Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU) announced the suspension on Friday, stating that Tsegay tested positive for Letrozole in December.
While Tsegay provided supporting medical documents and evidence for the medication, she had not requested a therapeutic use exemption in advance, which the AIU acknowledged would have been granted otherwise. Letrozole is a substance used in breast cancer treatment and can also be used to manage the effects of steroid use.
The ban means Tsegay will miss key events, including the Diamond League circuit and the first Ultimate Championships in Budapest. She previously won the world championship in the 5,000 meters in 2022 and the 10,000 meters in 2023, and secured Olympic bronze in the 5,000 meters at the Tokyo Games in 2021. Tsegay competed in the 1,500, 5,000, and 10,000 meters at the 2024 Paris Olympics but did not medal.