Tennis/ Jannik Sinner accepts three-Month ban over doping violation

Jannik Sinner has agreed to a three-month suspension from tennis following a settlement with the World Anti-Doping Agency (Wada). The ban, effective from February 9 to May 4, stems from two positive tests for the banned substance clostebol in 2024.

The Italian, who recently claimed his first Australian Open title, will miss key tournaments, including Indian Wells and Miami, but will return in time for the French Open.

Wada acknowledged that Sinner, 23, did not intentionally cheat and that the substance provided no performance-enhancing benefits.

The contamination was traced to his physiotherapist, who used an over-the-counter spray containing clostebol to treat a cut on Sinner’s hand.

Despite the athlete’s lack of fault, Wada emphasized that players are responsible for their team’s actions under anti-doping rules.

Sinner expressed relief at resolving the case, stating, “This has been hanging over me for nearly a year. I accept responsibility for my team and respect Wada’s rules, which protect the sport I love.”

The suspension highlights the ongoing challenges of doping in tennis, following similar cases like Iga Swiatek’s one-month ban last year. Sinner’s return to training is set for April 13, with his comeback tournament likely to be the Italian Open in May.