The handling of tennis star Jannik Sinner’s doping case has ruffled feathers among players and industry insiders alike. The authorities have come under fire for their perceived lack of transparency, given that the case was only made public several months after it started in March 2024.
Adding fuel to the fire is the observation by some players that the former world number one had his provisional suspension lifted unusually quickly. Prior to the ITIA verdict, which was issued just before the 2024 US Open, Sinner was able to continue his tennis pursuits unhindered, even clocking up some impressive results.
However, the World Anti-Doping Agency’s (WADA) decision to challenge the acquittal set the stage for a trial before the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) in Lausanne on April 16 and 17. At just 23 years old, the native of Sesto Pusteria faced the potential of a one to two-year suspension, a development that would undoubtedly have significant ramifications for his career.
The tennis world breathed a collective sigh of relief last Saturday when it was announced that Sinner and WADA had reached a consensus. The Italian star would serve a three-month suspension, effective from February 9 to May 4. Despite missing six tournaments during this period, Sinner will be eligible to participate in the Rome Masters 1000, much to the delight of his home crowd, and also in the French Open.
Esteemed coach Patrick Mouratoglou, speaking through his official Instagram account, voiced his thoughts on the matter. The former coach to Serena Williams expressed dissatisfaction with how the situation was managed, yet staunchly affirmed his belief in Sinner’s innocence.
“I don’t believe he doped himself. Given his mentality and reputation as a good guy, I just can’t see him wanting to cheat,” Mouratoglou stated. He went on to add, “In most cases, when such low levels of a banned substance are detected, it usually points to accidental contamination. In my view, Sinner is clearly a victim.”
After the world was left reeling from the announcement, the world number one took some time off to regroup in Dubai.
