The shocking news that took the tennis world by storm in August has finally come to a conclusion. World No. 1 tennis player Jannik Sinner has accepted a three-month suspension following a settlement with the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA). The ban, effective from February 9 to May 4, 2025, stems from two positive tests for the prohibited anabolic agent clostebol in March 2024. This suspension allows Sinner to return to competition ahead of the French Open, which begins on May 19. But what does the Italian tennis star have to say about the decision?
Addressing the suspension, the World No.1 expressed relief that the matter had finally been resolved. “This case had been hanging over me now for nearly a year and the process still had a long time to run with a decision maybe only at the end of the year,” he said. “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. On that basis, I have accepted WADA’s offer to resolve these proceedings on the basis of a 3-month sanction.”
Jannik Sinner’s statement after being banned from professional tennis for 3 months (returns during the Rome Masters):
“This case had been hanging over me now for nearly a year and the process still had a long time to run with a decision maybe only at the end of the year.
— Olly Tennis (@Olly_Tennis_) February 15, 2025
The International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) had initially ruled that Sinner bore “No Fault or Negligence” for the violations, attributing the positive tests to a contaminated spray used by a member of his support team to treat a hand injury.
Despite the ITIA’s ruling, WADA appealed the decision, leading to the current settlement. The case raised questions about anti-doping regulations and the strict liability placed on athletes—even in cases of unintentional violations.
Jannik Sinner’s suspension means he will be sidelined for several key tournaments, including Indian Wells and Miami (Sunshine Double), Monte Carlo Masters and Madrid Masters
However, he is expected to make his return at the Rome Masters, giving him crucial preparation time for Roland Garros.
The post ‘Responsible for My Team’ – Jannik Sinner Clears Stance With Defiant Message After WADA’s Shocking Move appeared first on EssentiallySports.