Sinner ‘not naming names’ for messages he did and didn’t receive during doping ban
Jannik Sinner Returns to Tennis at Italian Open After Doping Ban
ROME — Italian tennis star Jannik Sinner is making his comeback at the Italian Open this week after serving a three-month doping ban. The top-ranked player was surprised by the messages of support he received from some fellow players at the start of his suspension, while others remained silent.
The World Anti-Doping Agency’s settlement with Sinner raised eyebrows as it allowed him to return to the court without missing any Grand Slam events. The controversy surrounding the ban stemmed from an accidental contamination by a banned anabolic steroid in March 2024, which the International Tennis Integrity Agency initially fully exonerated Sinner for.
During his ban, Sinner practiced with fellow pros like Jack Draper, Lorenzo Sonego, and Holger Rune. Despite the challenges he faced during his suspension, Sinner expressed gratitude for the support he received from players like Casper Ruud and Alexander Zverev.
Sinner’s coaches, Simone Vagnozzi and Darren Cahill, acknowledged the scrutiny their player faced but emphasized the positive comments and gestures that helped Sinner navigate the difficult period. Vagnozzi also hinted at a possible solo coaching role in the future but stressed the importance of having multiple perspectives when working with a player of Sinner’s caliber.
As Sinner prepares to compete at the Italian Open, Vagnozzi highlighted the challenges of playing on clay, noting that it’s not Sinner’s strongest surface. However, with a successful clay season in 2021, including semifinal appearances at Monte Carlo and the French Open, there is optimism for Sinner’s performance in Rome.
The Italian tennis star will face Mariano Navone in his opening match at the tournament, looking to extend his 21-match winning streak. Despite the pressure and scrutiny surrounding his return, Sinner remains focused on his game and determined to make his mark on the red clay courts of the Foro Italico.
The last Italian man to win the Rome title was Adriano Panatta in 1976, and Sinner will be looking to follow in his footsteps as he competes on home soil. With the support of his team and fellow players, Sinner is ready to showcase his talent and make a strong comeback in the world of tennis.
