Rafael Nadal defends Jannik Sinner amid doping test controversy
What's the story
Men's singles top-ranked tennis player, Jannik Sinner, remains embroiled in controversy after testing positive for a prohibited steroid named clostebol.
Sinner was cleared of doping charges by the International Tennis Integrity Agency. The decision was based on an independent tribunal's finding that violation by Sinner was unintentional and resulted from contamination by a team member's use of a spray containing Clostebol.
Despite some players suggesting favoritism in Sinner's case, 22-time Grand Slam winner Rafael Nadal has defended him.
Trust
Nadal expresses confidence in Sinner's integrity
Nadal has expressed his firm belief that Sinner would never intentionally use performance-enhancing drugs.
He stated, "I know Sinner; I don't believe that Sinner has ever wanted to dope."
Nadal also emphasized his trust in the anti-doping organizations and their ability to make fair judgments.
He asserted that these bodies take a call on what they believe is right, not on a player's ranking or status within the sport.
Exoneration
ITIA clears Sinner after two failed drug tests
It was reported that the ITIA cleared Sinner after he failed two drug tests in March.
Throughout the investigation, Sinner maintained his innocence and argued that clostebol's quantity was less than one billionth of a gram.
The ITIA, an independent body established by tennis' governing bodies in 2021, accepted this explanation and did not impose any period of ineligibility on him.
Protocols
Calls for clear protocols in handling doping cases
In response to Sinner's case, Novak Djokovic has called for "clear protocols" and "standardized" procedures in handling doping cases.
Nick Kyrgios also voiced his opinion, asserting that the Italian world number one should have faced a ban.
Despite these views, Nadal remains confident that Sinner received no special treatment during the investigation, and therefore, a subsequent decision was taken.
Information
Sinner featuring in 2024 US Open
Sinner is currently featuring in the 2024 US Open. He has reached the quarter-finals after losing just one set. The Italian star will now take on Daniil Medvedev in the last eight clash.