Jannik Sinner to miss key tournaments after WADA ban
What's the story
World No. 1 tennis player, Jannik Sinner, has been handed a three-month suspension by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA).
The ban comes after Sinner tested positive for Clostebol, a prohibited anabolic steroid.
The suspension period runs from February 9 to May 4, preventing him from participating in several significant tournaments including Indian Wells, Miami Open, Monte Carlo Masters and Madrid Open.
Appeal outcome
Sinner's suspension: A result of WADA's appeal
The International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) initially cleared Sinner after he tested positive for Clostebol in two doping tests last March.
He alleged the substance had accidentally entered his system through contamination from a trainer who had applied it to a cut on his finger.
However, WADA appealed the decision to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), seeking a minimum one-year ban.
The two parties eventually reached an agreement, reducing the suspension to three months.
Tournament impact
Sinner's absence to impact ATP Tour and rankings
Sinner's suspension is a huge blow for the ATP Tour, given his recent dominance.
After clinching his Grand Slam title at the Australian Open in January, he was seen as a strong contender for upcoming clay-court events.
His absence from Indian Wells and Miami—two prestigious Masters 1000 tournaments—will affect the battle for the ATP No. 1 ranking.
Despite this setback, Sinner is expected to return at the Italian Open in Rome (May 7-18), weeks before French Open (May 25-June 8).
Acceptance statement
Sinner accepts responsibility, prepares for comeback
In a statement, Sinner said he accepted the situation and WADA's strict rules.
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."
His lawyer Jamie Singer of Onside Law also spoke on the case saying it is clear Sinner had no intent or knowledge and gained no competitive advantage from this incident.
Records
Sinner made these records post AO 2025 win
As per Opta, Sinner became the youngest man to win back-to-back singles titles at the Australian Open since Jim Courier (1992-1993).
The Italian also became the fifth player in the Open Era to win three consecutive men's singles titles at Grand Slam on hard court. He joins John McEncore, Ivan Lendl, Roger Federer, and Novak Djokovic on this elite list.
Information
Three-time champion Sinner's stats at Grand Slams
Three-time Grand Slam champion Sinner owns a win-loss record of 68-18 at majors. He had a sensational 2024 campaign, posting a 23-2 record and winning two Slam titles. He owns a 22-4 win-loss record at the Australian Open.