The Italian Tennis and Padel Federation (FITP) has doubled down on its support for Jannik Sinner, calling his three-month doping suspension a “shameful injustice.”
While the organization is relieved that Sinner can move forward, it remains outraged that the ATP World No. 1 was punished at all despite WADA confirming that he did not intentionally take the banned substance.
FITP: “This Agreement Certifies Sinner’s Innocence”
After nearly a year of legal uncertainty, speculation, and controversy, Sinner and WADA reached a settlement to avoid a drawn-out battle in the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).
Although the Italian was initially cleared of wrongdoing by the International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA), WADA appealed and initially sought a one-to-two-year suspension.
The three-month ban (February 9 – May 4, 2025) is a compromise that allows Sinner to return in time for Roland Garros, but the Italian Tennis Federation remains furious at the process.
“It’s the first time that a shameful injustice makes us happy, because our first thought is for the boy who sees a nightmare come to an end,” FITP stated.
“This agreement between the two parties certifies Jannik’s innocence, his absolute non-guilt, and finally allows him to calm down and plan his future—with a great return at the Internazionali BNL d’Italia in Rome, where all of Italy will welcome him as he deserves.”
Sinner’s Support System: Italy Rallies Around Its Tennis Star
Throughout this saga, Sinner has received unwavering backing from Italian tennis leadership, fans, and fellow athletes.
- Italian Davis Cup captain Filippo Volandri called any suspension a “disgrace” to sports.
- The Italian Tennis Federation has consistently defended Sinner, reaffirming that he did not knowingly take clostebol.
- Italian fans are expected to give Sinner a hero’s welcome at the Italian Open (May 7–18), his first tournament after the suspension.
For Sinner, this support has likely been a source of strength in an exhausting legal battle.
Sinner’s Statement: A “Clear Conscience” but an Imperfect Victory
Following the official confirmation of his suspension, Sinner acknowledged that the process had been draining, stating:
“This case had been hanging over me for nearly a year, and the process still had a long time to run, with a decision maybe only at the end of the year.”
Rather than fight an extended legal battle that could have taken most of 2025, Sinner chose to settle.
While he avoids a lengthy ban, he loses the chance to fully clear his name through CAS.
It’s a bittersweet outcome:
✔️ WADA confirmed Sinner did not intentionally cheat.
❌ He still receives a three-month suspension.
Will Sinner Lose His No. 1 Ranking? What’s Next?
Sinner’s ban will keep him out of major ATP Masters 1000 events, including:
❌ Indian Wells Open
❌ Miami Open
❌ Monte-Carlo Masters
❌ Madrid Open
However, he will return just in time for the Italian Open (May 7) and Roland Garros (May 25).
Despite keeping his World No. 1 ranking for now, Alexander Zverev could overtake him if he racks up 2,500 ranking points during Sinner’s absence.
Will Sinner return stronger than ever?
History suggests he can. Maria Sharapova, a five-time Grand Slam champion, served a longer ban and still became a Hall of Famer.
For now, Sinner’s focus will be on putting this ordeal behind him and making a triumphant comeback.
Final Thoughts: Justice Served or a Compromise?
The Italian Tennis Federation and Sinner’s supporters still believe he never should have been punished.
Was WADA’s decision to settle a quiet admission of doubt?
Or did Sinner simply take the smartest path to move forward and focus on his career?
One thing is certain: Sinner’s return in May will be one of the biggest storylines of the 2025 season.
Tennis fans, mark your calendars—this fight isn’t over yet.