2004 Mar 16 - Rusedski speaks at Queens Club

Greg was in the more familiar surroundings of London's Queens Club as he spoke to the media about his nightmare start to the year which has seen the ATP initially brand Greg a drug cheat and then see him to prove his innocence in a tribunal.

The President's Room at London's Queen's Club was packed to the rafters with journalists and photographers such has been the interest in the Greg Rusedski saga.

In Greg's corner were his biggest supporters, his wife Lucy and lawyer Mark Gay.

Greg said:

"It was very hurtful to be called a cheat and all sorts of things on the front pages of the newspapers when you know you've done nothing wrong.

"I believe the public knew the truth, and that got me through, along with the support of Lucy, my family and my friends."

Although the ATP supplied the contaminated supplements to Greg (and at least seven other players) it is still not clear exactly how they became contaminated. Therefore, more investigations will need to take place by the ATP if they are to get to the bottom of the matter.

Greg has offered to assist the ATP in resolving the issue. However, it seems they are currently negotiating a significant out of court settlement to stop Greg proceeding with a claim for damages.

Such a settlement would not only be financial but the possibility of extending his injury-protected ranking - which ended in February - and currently means he needs to qualify for tour events.

With thoughts now turning to the future Greg admitted he intended to take part in at least two more Wimbledon Championships. His wife Lucy added: "He'd love to win it."