Jack Draper extends support to Jannik Sinner as he shares conversation he had with Italian amid doping ban

Jannik Sinner is prohibited from ATP-sanctioned tournaments till May 4 and could make his comeback at the Italian Open.

Jack Draper extends support to Jannik Sinner as he shares conversation he had with Italian amid doping ban

Jack Draper, Jannik Sinner (Image via X)

While the top players are participating in the Indian Wells, World No.1 Jannik Sinner can’t do much but stay on the sidelines till May. He has been given a three-month ban by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA).

Sinner was contaminated by clostebol but bore no fault or negligence in the International Tennis Integrity Agency’s (ITIA) verdict. WADA challenged the verdict before the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), demanding that he should be given a ban of one to two years. But WADA withdrew the appeal and instead of giving Sinner a harsh punishment, imposed a three-month ban on him.

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The tennis world is divided over anti-doping agencies’ treatment of Sinner, with critics saying that he received a lenient punishment because he is a top player. The World No.1 could return to tennis court in May and Jack Draper is confident that the three-time Grand Slam champion would make a strong comeback.

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One thing about Jannik is that he’s definitely come back stronger. This period and last year have been difficult for him. I always try to send my support. I tell him I’m very inspired by him and all the things he’s achieving in the game…his work ethic, the way he carries himself on and off the court. It’s very very impressive. And he’s just a very genuine, kind guy. He deserves all the success he’s getting.

Jack Draper told Sky Sports

Jack Draper sends warning to Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner

Jack Draper is undoubtedly a talented player but he is yet to enjoy success like his two colleagues Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner. The World No.14 has so far clinched just two career titles.

Carlos Alcaraz, Jannik Sinner
Carlos Alcaraz, Jannik Sinner (Images via X)

In Grand Slam events, the Brit has made deep runs but hasn’t yet tasted success. Alcaraz and Sinner, on the other hand, are the leaders of the next generation of tennis, having won four and three Majors, respectively. Draper wants to keep working on his game to challenge the two Grand Slam winners.

Sinner, Alcaraz…they’re leading the way at the moment. But I know myself. I’m hungry, I’m willing to do whatever it takes to really improve and compete with them.

Jack Draper told Vogue

Although Draper is 1-1 against Sinner, he has defeated Alcaraz just once in their four meetings (twice Draper retired mid-match). Alcaraz too is in Indian Wells and will be playing the ATP 1000 event as a two-time defending champion.