THE International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) is investigating two matches at Wimbledon over possible irregular betting patterns. The ITIA, which is responsible for safeguarding the integrity of professional tennis worldwide, received two alerts from the betting industry during the championships at the All England Club. Alerts can be for match-fixing, but also incorrect odds-setting, well-informed betting, player fitness, fatigue or form as well as playing conditions and personal circumstances. A spokesman for the ITIA said Wednesday: “Any alert reported to the ITIA is recorded, assessed and followed up as an indicator that something inappropriate may have happened. “It is important to note that an alert on its own is not evidence of match-fixing. Where analysis of a match alert does suggest corrupt activity, the ITIA conducts a full and confidential investigation.” The ITIA said it was not able to provide more details on the matches being investigated, but German newspaper Die Welt reported a first-round singles match and a first-round men’s doubles match were the ties being looked at. A spokesperson for the All England Club said: “The integrity of the sport is of the utmost importance to everyone at Wimbledon. “We continue to invest in additional measures to support the integrity operation onsite during the Championships and we work closely with the ITIA both at the Championships and throughout the year.” (SD-Agencies) |