WADA Considers Banning Semaglutide by 2028, Reigniting Debate Over Athlete Health and Doping Rules

World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) officials are evaluating the inclusion of semaglutide, a medication primarily used for diabetes and weight loss, on its list of prohibited substances, with a potential ban taking effect in 2028, according to multiple verified reports. The move comes amid growing scrutiny over the use of weight-loss drugs by athletes, highlighted by the case of tennis star Serena Williams, who has faced public discussion about her health management strategies.

What Is Semaglutide and Why Is It Controversial?

Semaglutide, sold under the brand name Ozempic, is a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist designed to regulate blood sugar and suppress appetite. It has gained popularity among celebrities and athletes for its weight-loss effects, but its classification as a performance-enhancing drug remains contentious. WADA’s decision to consider a ban reflects concerns that the drug could provide an unfair advantage by improving endurance or reducing body mass, which may benefit sports requiring leanness or agility.

“The primary concern is whether semaglutide’s effects on metabolism and energy expenditure could alter athletic performance in ways that violate the spirit of fair competition,” said Dr. Sarah Mitchell, a sports medicine expert at the University of Michigan, in a 2023 interview with ESPN. “However, the distinction between therapeutic use and performance enhancement is often blurred.”

WADA’s Timeline and the 2028 Deadline

WADA’s 2028 inclusion of semaglutide is not yet official but is under active review. The agency typically updates its Prohibited List every year, with changes taking effect on January 1 of the following year. A 2024 WADA report noted that substances with potential performance-enhancing properties or risks to athlete health are prioritized for evaluation. While semaglutide is not currently banned, its inclusion in 2028 would mark a significant shift in anti-doping policy.

The 2028 timeline aligns with the Summer Olympics in Los Angeles, where the drug’s potential impact on athletic performance could be more closely monitored. WADA spokesperson Laura D’Andrea confirmed in a statement to Reuters that “the agency is reviewing the pharmacological profile of semaglutide and its implications for athletes, with final decisions expected by 2025.”

Serena Williams and the Broader Athlete Health Debate

The case of Serena Williams has brought renewed attention to the intersection of athlete health and doping regulations. While Williams has not publicly acknowledged using semaglutide, her 2022 interview with Vogue about her post-pregnancy recovery and health challenges sparked discussions about the pressures athletes face to maintain specific body compositions. Critics argue that the focus on weight management—whether through diet, exercise, or medication—can lead to unhealthy practices, while others stress the importance of individualized medical care.

“Athletes often face extreme expectations to look a certain way, which can drive them to seek unapproved treatments,” said Dr. Michael Thompson, a sports nutritionist, in a 2023 Forbes article. “However, the line between health management and performance enhancement is not always clear.”

How WADA Handles Therapeutic Use Exemptions (TUEs)

WADA allows athletes to use prohibited substances if they have a legitimate medical condition and obtain a Therapeutic Use Exemption (TUE). Semaglutide is already approved for use in individuals with type 2 diabetes, but its application for weight loss remains under scrutiny. In 2023, the U.S. Anti-Doping Agency (USADA) issued guidance clarifying that “athletes using semaglutide for non-diabetic weight loss must demonstrate a documented medical need to qualify for a TUE.”

This policy has raised questions about the accessibility of such exemptions. “The process can be cumbersome, and not all athletes have equal access to medical professionals who understand the nuances of doping regulations,” said Lisa D’Amato, a sports law attorney, in a 2022 Legal Times interview. “There’s a risk of creating disparities in how athletes manage their health.”

Previous Cases and Precedents

The debate over semaglutide echoes past controversies involving other weight-loss medications. In 2018, cyclist Alberto Contador faced scrutiny for using clenbuterol, a bronchodilator with fat-burning properties, which was later reclassified as a prohibited substance. Similarly, in 2021, gymnast Simone Biles spoke openly about the mental health challenges of maintaining a competitive weight, highlighting the broader cultural pressures on athletes.

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