In 12/2024, Maryna Bekh-Romanchuk tested positive for a testosterone metabolite, a banned substance in sports. In May of this year, the Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU) stated that the 30-year-old Ukrainian athlete could not prove that her elevated testosterone levels were due to a medical condition and treatment as she claimed. The ban, effective until 5/2029, will likely cause her to miss at least two world championships and the 2028 Olympics.
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Maryna competing in France in 8/2024. Photo: Reuters |
Maryna competing in France in 8/2024. Photo: Reuters
Had Maryna admitted the violation before 8/10, the AIU could have reduced her ban by one year. However, the 2023 world triple jump silver medalist refused to sign any admission of guilt.
"I am an honest person. Humanity and dignity are very important to me," Maryna wrote on Instagram on 8/21. "I have dedicated my whole life to sports and fair play. This path has not been easy, but I have always maintained my integrity. I am heartbroken that this case was handled carelessly and the necessary investigation was not conducted. I can no longer fight on both fronts: my honor before the AIU and my personal health."
Maryna will take a break, but she is not giving up. She also announced that she will soon conduct an interview to share her full story.
Despite the career-altering ban, Maryna is ready to embark on a new chapter. She has been actively developing her modeling career and social media presence. Her Instagram account currently has around 490,000 followers. With the strength and discipline honed through athletics, Maryna is no stranger to the spotlight or working in front of the camera. Her transition to fashion is a natural progression as athletes increasingly leverage various platforms to reinvent themselves. The combination of her athletic talent, aesthetic sense, and determination also makes her a strong candidate for sports apparel and wellness campaigns. Maryna currently collaborates with brands like Domino Group, Trihard, and Fabric 17.
Maryna’s best achievements at the world championships are silver medals in the long jump in 2019 and the triple jump in 2023. She is also a three-time Olympian, the 2021 European long jump champion, and the 2022 European triple jump champion.
Thanh Quy (via Instagram, Marca)
