Simona Halep rebuffed rumors emanating from the Romanian press of her supposed relationship with former ATP player Joao Monteiro.
Halep shared on her Instagram stories that she had read multiple outlets reporting of an affair between the two of them. The former WTA No. 1 clarified that Monteiro, 29, is a hitting partner entrusted to get her in shape while she is away from the Tour.
Halep has been provisionally suspended since last October by the International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) for a failed drug test and subsequent inconsistencies with her biological passport. The Romanian star has challenged the doping charges and is currently awaiting a verdict on her case.
Former Portuguese player Monteiro was only hired in recent weeks but became a hot topic for Romanian tabloids after a photo posted by Halep's best friend at a party caught the attention of the local press who hastily concluded that the pair were involved in a romantic relationship.
"I kept reading fabricated articles about my relationship with Joao, he is my training partner, nothing more! Thank you."
The news has also garnered traction within the tennis world. Respected Portuguese journalist Jose Morgado reacted to the news and tweeted about the rumors on X, telling fans the reports originated from Romania.
"A bit of a situation meanwhile in Romania, where former #1 Simona Halep had to clarify on Instagram that she isn’t dating former Portuguese player João Monteiro, as reported there. He is working with her as hitting partner/coach & was seen with her BFF. Press got creative."
Halep and ex-husband Toni Luruc divorced last September, shortly before their first anniversary. At the time, she stated that they decided to go their separate ways by mutual consent. Having spent a full calendar year out of the game, Halep will be unranked after the US Open, losing the 10 points she garnered with last year's participation. There is no definite timeframe on whether she will be back on court anytime soon.
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