World No. 1 tennis player Jannik Sinner has accepted a three-month suspension following a settlement with the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA).
Jannik Sinner’s doping case settled: Tennis star accepts 3-month suspension
This decision concludes a protracted case stemming from twopositive tests for the banned substance clostebol in March 2024.
The 23-year-old Italian attributed the presence of clostebol to accidental contamination.
According to Sinner, his physiotherapist used a clostebol-containing spray to treat a personal injury and subsequently administered massages to Sinner without proper precautions, leading to trace amounts entering Sinner’s system.
An independent tribunal previously accepted this explanation, determining there was “no fault or negligence” on Sinner’s part.
Jannik Sinner on his settlement with the World Anti-Doping Agency ⤵️ pic.twitter.com/5Hcl7ocYDw
— TENNIS (@Tennis) February 15, 2025
However, WADA challenged the initial decision, seeking a longer suspension. In a statement, Sinner expressed relief that the matter has been resolved:
“This case had been hanging over me now for nearly a year…
I have always accepted that I am responsible for my team and realize WADA’s strict rules are an important protection for the sport I love.”
The suspension, effective from February 9 to May 4, 2025, means Sinner will miss several key tournaments, including the Masters 1000 events in Indian Wells, Miami, Monte Carlo, and Madrid.
Despite this, he is expected to return in time for the Italian Open in Rome and the French Open, which begins on May 25.
The settlement has elicited mixed reactions within the tennis community.
Nick Kyrgios criticized the decision, suggesting it reflects inconsistencies in doping sanctions:
“In the tennis world, there is no justice.”
Conversely, others have shown support for Sinner, acknowledging the unintentional nature of the violation.
Sinner’s legal representative, Jamie Singer, emphasized the importance of athlete accountability while also highlighting the unique circumstances of the case:
“WADA has confirmed the facts determined by the Independent Tribunal.
It is clear that Jannik had no intent, no knowledge, and gained no competitive advantage.”
As Sinner navigates this challenging period, his focus remains on returning to competition and maintaining his position at the pinnacle of the sport.
