Jannik Sinner faces challenging phase after WADA considers ban
World number one, Jannik Sinner, is currently facing a challenging phase due to his ongoing doping case. The 23-year-old Italian star has been under intense scrutiny after the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) announced its intention to seek a two-year ban following his positive tests for the steroid clostebol in March. Despite being cleared of any wrongdoing by the International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) in August, Sinner described this period as "a very difficult moment" and admitted to experiencing sleepless nights.
ITIA clears Sinner; WADA appeals
The ITIA had earlier accepted Sinner's explanation that Sinner unintentionally consumed the banned substance after his physiotherapist used a spray containing it to treat a cut. However, despite this clearance, WADA has appealed the decision to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), sparking a fresh controversy. Sinner expressed his disappointment at being back in this situation and emphasized his focus on staying prepared for each match he plays.
WADA questions ITIA's 'no fault or negligence' ruling
WADA has taken issue with the ITIA's ruling that Sinner "bears no fault or negligence" in this high-profile case. The anti-doping agency stated, "It is WADA's view that the finding of 'no fault or negligence' was not correct under the applicable rules." Despite the ongoing appeal, Sinner is scheduled to take on Chinese wildcard Bu Yunchaokete in the semi-finals of the China Open.
Sinner's surprise at WADA's appeal
Sinner expressed his surprise at WADA's decision to appeal, stating that he had three hearings, all of which came out positively for him. He was not expecting an appeal and believes that WADA just wants to gain clarity. The appeal to the Switzerland-based CAS means that the case could extend beyong the Australian Open in January.
