Jannik Sinner has spoken out about his recent three-month doping ban, stating that he made a swift decision to accept it, even though he didn`t fully agree with the situation.
The Italian tennis player, who won the Australian Open earlier this year, agreed to a three-month suspension in February after reaching an understanding with the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) following two positive drug tests in 2024.
Sinner told Sky Italy that ultimately, he felt he had to choose the option that seemed like the least unfavorable, even if it felt somewhat unjust. He acknowledged the situation could have been worse and that this was the best way forward.
The ban will conclude in time for Sinner to participate in the next Grand Slam tournament, the French Open in May. He will be eligible to compete again starting from his home tournament, the Masters 1000 in Rome on May 7.
Sinner explained that the decision for the three-month suspension was made quite rapidly, following discussions with his lawyer and team. Despite his reservations, they decided to accept it quickly. He admitted that it took him some time afterward to regain his focus.
He emphasized his continued presence in tennis and mentioned that while there`s still time to process everything, he is eager to return to competition in Rome, a tournament that holds special significance for him, despite the anticipated pressure.
Sinner had previously tested positive for clostebol in March 2024 but was cleared in August by an independent tribunal, which determined he was not at fault. WADA appealed this decision to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) seeking a longer ban, but an agreement was reached for a three-month suspension.
Sinner described feeling vulnerable after these events and emphasized that he is not without emotions. He highlighted the learning experience and the support from his team in navigating the situation. He expressed uncertainty about how other players will react to his return, maintaining his innocence and focus on playing tennis serenely.
He is currently counting down the days until he can compete again, viewing this time as an opportunity to improve and prepare for his return to the sport he loves.
