The tallest men’s player in professional tennis in the world stands at 6 feet 11 inches. As with his height, he is equally renowned for his candid views on tennis. Recently he had also openly criticized the carbon tracking app launched by ATP, which he felt was an eyewash that in no way dealt with the real issues plaguing the men’s game.
It is none other than the 26-year-old American sensation, Reilly Opelka. In a recent Instagram Q&A session, Opelka shared his insights for the transformations he desires in professional tennis. His hard-hitting response much like his tennis serve was to, “Ban Adderall,” from the sport. This statement from him has immediately stirred interest among the tennis communities.
Notably, Opelka had previously expressed his disapproval of drug usage, through social media when Fernando Verdasco faced suspension in December 2022 for its use. Former world No. 7, Verdasco, received a two-month ban for failing to renew his Therapeutic Use Exemption (TUE) with WADA for the said drug, the main reason for his ban.
His suspension, ignited a debate about players tactically using TUEs to their advantage to use such drugs. Adderall is typically prescribed for ADHD – an attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder, which is the focal point of Opelka’s concerns. To justify his standpoint, Opelka said, “My comment applies to professional tennis in particular. But some players have a hard time building strength… should they be allowed to take steroids?”
Reilly Opelka calls for a ban on Adderall in professional tennis.
During a Q&A on Instagram, he was asked what changes he’d like to see on the ATP Tour:
“Ban Adderall.”
Due to its effectiveness in treating ADHD, Reilly was questioned about his call for an Adderall Ban. This… pic.twitter.com/ikdoJcEpT9
— The Tennis Letter (@TheTennisLetter) October 19, 2023
Tennis icon and commentator, Pam Shriver had also raised concerns about players using ADHD medication which provides enhanced focus. She questioned how many current players have sought TUEs for ADHD, prompting questions about integrity in the sport.
Currently not playing due to injury, Opelka’s stance suggests that he has been contemplating some of the shortcomings of the tour as he sees them. The American’s views should certainly make some impact!
Reilly Opelka eyes tennis return after injury layoff
Reilly Opelka hopes to make his return to tennis at the upcoming Charlottesville Pro Challenger tournament. He hasn’t played in any ATP tournaments this year due to injuries. First, he had hip surgery, and later he injured his right wrist, delaying his comeback. After a long recovery period, Opelka announced his plans on social media to play in Charlottesville in just 10 days.
Opelka’s last match was at the 2022 Citi Open, where he lost in the third round to Nick Kyrgios, who went on to win the tournament. Due to his extended absence from the tour, he dropped out of the rankings. Opelka had a good start in 2022, winning titles at the ATP Houston and Dallas Open.
However, due to physical injuries, his performance declined as the season went on, with three consecutive losses following his Houston victory and only three wins in the first three Grand Slam events of 2022 before withdrawing from the US Open last year.
