Iga Swiatek's reaction to Simona Halep’s doping suspension.

The WTA Finals are currently underway in Shenzhen, China, with Simona Halep set to compete in the tournament. However, the Romanian has been provisionally suspended by the International Tennis Federation (ITF) after testing positive for a banned substance.

The news of Halep’s failed drugs test has come as a surprise to many in the tennis world, including WTA Finals champion Iga Swiatek.

The Polish star was asked for her reaction to the news during her post-match press conference on Sunday, and she said she was “shocked”. “I am really shocked. I don’t know what to say. I have no idea what’s going on,” she said.

This is not the first time that a high-profile tennis player has been embroiled in a doping scandal, and it is sure to cast a shadow over the WTA Finals in Shenzhen. Simona Halep has released a statement responding to her failed drugs test, saying she is “confident” that she will be cleared of any wrongdoing.

The Romanian star tested positive for the banned substance Roxadustat at this year’s US Open, but she has vehemently denied any wrongdoing. “I am aware that I have been tested positive for a banned substance,” she said in a statement. “I am confident that I will be able to prove my innocence and I hope that this matter will be resolved soon.”

Iga Swiatek, who is also from Poland, beat Halep in the French Open final earlier this year. And the WTA Finals debutant has now issued a statement on social media, saying: “I am shocked and saddened by the news of Simona’s doping suspension.

“She is a great champion and role model, and I have always looked up to her. I hope she can return to the tour soon and compete at the highest level again.”