Ex-coach of Simona Halep Darren Cahill defenced her after positive doping test.

Darren Cahill, who worked with Halep from 2013 to 2016, during which time she won her first grand slam at the French Open in 2018, said he was “shocked and saddened” by the news.

“This is a very difficult time for Simona and I want to offer her my full support,” Cahill said in a statement. I know first-hand what an exemplary professional she is – both on and off the court – and I have absolutely no doubt that the substances she tested positive for were not taken intentionally."

“Simona has my complete trust and respect and I believe she will overcome this challenge.”

The 29-year-old Halep, who is currently ranked second in the world, tested positive for the banned substance acetonitrile during an out-of-competition test on September 16. She faces a possible ban of up to two years if she is found guilty of doping.

Halep has denied any wrongdoing and said she will “defend her honor and reputation”. She is provisionally suspended from competing until the case is resolved.

Cahill’s support for Halep comes as former world number one Andy Murray also spoke out in defence of the Romanian, saying he does not believe she would intentionally take a banned substance.

Darren Cahill leapt to her defence on Twitter. Darren Cahill took to Twitter to defend Simona Halep after it was revealed that the Romanian had tested positive for a banned substance. The two-time Grand Slam champion tested positive for the banned substance Roxadustat at this year’s US Open in August.

The former world No 1 immediately issued a statement on social media insisting that the positive test was the result of a “contaminated food supplement”. Darren Cahill, who coached Simona Halep between 2014 and 2016, believes her explanation is entirely plausible.

“I don’t think there is any chance Simona has done anything knowingly,” Murray said. “She is an absolute perfectionist with her training, diet, everything.” The Scot added: “I would be shocked if she had done anything intentionally. I hope she is OK.”