French star Gasquet fails drugs test

France's Richard Gasquet, the world number 23 and former Wimbledon semi-finalist, failed a drugs test at the Miami Masters in March, it was claimed here on Saturday.

Traces of a recreational drug, believed to be cocaine, were discovered in his A-sample, Radio RMC Info reported, citing unidentified sources at the French Tennis Federation (FFT) and at Team Lagardere, the 22-year-old's training base. Gasquet pulled out of his opening match in Miami against Spain's Albert Montanes because of a shoulder injury. He withdrew from this week's tournament in Estoril with a neck injury and is not playing at the Madrid Masters, which got underway on Saturday.

The website of respected French sports daily L'Equipe claimed the drug test results showed traces of cocaine. Gasquet, who could be banned for two years if his B sample also tests positive, was unavailable for comment on Saturday.

Cocaine has proved the downfall of a number of high-profile sportsmen in recent years including football legend Diego Maradona while, earlier on Saturday, world champion cyclist Tom Boonen was suspended by his team for a second positive test for the drug.

PARIS, Sunday (AFP)