World No. 1 Jannik Sinner Expresses Concern as Doping Case Lingers
Jannik Sinner, the top-ranked player in the world, is still dealing with the fallout from his doping case, which is affecting his career.
Despite having been previously exonerated of any wrongdoing by tennis officials, the Italian tennis star disclosed on Friday that he finds himself in a “uncomfortable” situation as the probe continues. Sinner, though, is still concentrated on his Shanghai Masters match.
Sinner’s claim that the drug accidentally entered his system was accepted by the International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) in August.
Despite the fact that his doping case was still pending, world number one Jannik Sinner stated on Friday that he was not in a “comfortable” situation and that he felt prepared for his Shanghai Masters debut. The Italian was exonerated of all charges by tennis officials last week, following two positive tests for steroids in March.
However, the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) announced last week that it would appeal the ruling. The 23-year-old overcame the controversy to go to Wednesday’s China Open finals in Beijing, where he was defeated by fierce opponent Carlos Alcaraz.
Sinner responded, “It’s not in a situation where I feel comfortable in it, that’s for sure, because I thought it was over… so it’s not easy,” when asked if the pressure of the appeal was getting to him during a news conference.
The substance accidentally entered Sinner’s system when his physiotherapist used a spray containing it to treat a cut, according to Sinner’s explanation, which the International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) accepted in August. The athlete subsequently received massage and sports treatment from the physiotherapist.
However, WADA announced last Saturday that it had filed an appeal and was requesting a two-year ban.
“I had three hearings, all of which went well for me, but let’s wait and see. However, I have every confidence that it turns out well,” Sinner stated on Friday.
He must now focus on the Shanghai Masters, where he might have to play Alcaraz once more.
“We are quite similar as human beings off the court,” Sinner stated.
“Obviously on the court we try to meet, we try to put on a big fight… he pushes me to do better, which is something good.”
In his opening round of the competition this weekend, Sinner will take on Taro Daniel of Japan, who is ranked 93rd.
“I just finished my first practice session, so I’m feeling fine. Sinner declared, “I feel better.
