“I hope people understand,” Jannik Sinner looks forward to the US Open despite the ongoing doping controversy

Top seed Jannik Sinner opens his US Open campaign against American player Mackenzie McDonald on Tuesday.

“I hope people understand,” Jannik Sinner looks forward to the US Open despite the ongoing doping controversy

Jannik Sinner (Via Imago/ESPN)

World No. 1 Jannik Sinner has been the biggest headline going into the US Open. The Italian tested positive twice for a banned substance but did not receive a ban from the ATP or ITF.

This has led to intense criticism directed at Sinner from current and former tennis players. However, the top seed hopes to put the controversy behind him and remain focused on the US Open.

YouTube video
Being in the position I am in, I have the ability to take qualified people. Obviously, it happens to other people, it's going to be different. The reason why I kept playing is what I've told now. The people above know exactly how they took my system and where this clostebol was from.
Jannik Sinner said in an interview on ESPN

Sinner is happy that the decision came out in his favor. However, the ATP has deducted 400 points from the ranking that he earned during his Indian Wells performance.

FS Video
So, I haven't had a different treatment. The process is very long and you still don't know what's coming out. It was not an easy period for me. It was a very doubtful time. I'm happy that finally it's over so a lot of weight from my shoulders are gone. I wish no player goes through this. I hope people understand why they let me keep playing and why I got the no fault.
Jannik Sinner added

As a result of the controversy, Sinner has also parted ways with his physio and fitness coach. He will be in action on Tuesday (August 27) against American Mackenzie McDonald.

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Ivan Ljubicic and Jannik Sinner (via X/Imago)

Jannik Sinner seeks to strengthen World No.1 ranking at the US Open

Jannik Sinner has a challenging path ahead at the US Open. He could face former World No. 1s Daniil Medvedev in the quarter-finals and Carlos Alcaraz in the semi-finals. The Italian has shown strong form in recent Grand Slam tournaments.

Jannik Sinner (2)
Jannik Sinner (Image via X)

Since Wimbledon last year, Sinner has won 24 of his 28 matches at the majors. His only losses were to players who have reached at least World No. 2. Last year at the US Open, he lost in the fourth round to Alexander Zverev, but he recently beat the German in Cincinnati.

Sinner has experience at the US Open, reaching the quarter-finals in 2022. He also carries momentum into this year’s tournament after winning the Cincinnati title.

In 2024, Sinner is defending just 180 points compared to Alcaraz’s 720 and Novak Djokovic‘s 2000. This gives him a strong chance to extend his lead at the top of the rankings by advancing far in the tournament.

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