Jannik Sinner plays down expectations ahead of his return from a three-month doping suspension at the Italian Open

Jannik Sinner has only played one ATP event in 2025, which was his memorable campaign at the Australian Open.

Jannik Sinner plays down expectations ahead of his return from a three-month doping suspension at the Italian Open

Jannik Sinner (via X)

Jannik Sinner admitted it feels a bit strange to be back after his three-month anti-doping ban. But he also said he’s happy to return, especially at home in the Italian Open, which began on Wednesday. For now, he is keeping his expectations low as he eases back into competition.

Sinner last played in January when he won the Australian Open, his third Grand Slam title. His ban came after testing positive for clostebol in April 2024. Although he was cleared by an independent tribunal, a deal was reached with WADA for a three-month suspension.

My expectations for this tournament are very low for me. I need to play to understand where my level truly is, and I think it will come gradually as I play more matches. After the first match, I will have an idea of my tennis and see where I stand. I have just arrived, so I haven’t seen many colleagues yet. So far, everything is going well; it’s a strange feeling to be surrounded by so many people again, and it’s wonderful to be back.

Jannik Sinner said in his pre-tournament press conference (H/T: Punto de Break)

WADA rules made things tough during that time. Sinner couldn’t train at official venues or with other pros until a month before his return. He took a break early in the ban, but his training options were limited for most of it.

One of the hardest parts, Sinner said, was not being allowed to attend any professional sports events. As a big sports fan and ambassador for Formula One, missing out on that world made the suspension even harder.

Jannik Sinner speaks on the public response at the Rome Masters

World No.1 Jannik Sinner was welcomed by nearly 5,000 fans during his first practice at the Italian Open. It was also the day his three-month suspension officially ended. The session was broadcast live on local television, showing the excitement around his return.

Jannik Sinner (6)
Jannik Sinner (Image via X)

I don’t know. Honestly, I think I’m a simple 23-year-old kid. I’m good at playing tennis but I’m not changing the world. I always remember that I come from a small town of 2000 people. Being here in Rome and playing in front of so many people is a big deal.

Jannik Sinner in his pre-tournament press conference

Before the practice, Sinner was honored in a ceremony celebrating Italy’s wins in the Davis Cup and Billie Jean King Cup. Both trophies were present, and the crowd sang the national anthem with pride at Campo Centrale.

This year marks the first time Italy has had a World No.1 at its home event. Despite all the attention, Sinner said he doesn’t fully understand why so many people follow him so closely.

His comeback even made headlines with a Vatican twist. As a conclave was set to begin nearby, Italian media played with the phrase “Habemus Sinner,” a spin on the famous Latin words used when a new pope is chosen.

Jannik Sinner admits he was confused by the doping ban

The excitement at the Foro Italico was very different from how Jannik Sinner felt in February. That was when he agreed to a three-month suspension with the World Anti-Doping Agency. It was a difficult time for him, away from the sport he loves.

Jannik Sinner (8)
Jannik Sinner (Image via X/The Tennis Letter)

At the start I was a bit confused because I didn’t know exactly what I wanted to do. Then I went home and stayed with my family. I tried to understand better what was really important to me. I know how many sacrifices I made and my daily routine was always practice, practice, practice. But at that moment I didn’t have any of that. I came to understand that what’s important to me are the people by your side. That they give you the strength to move forward and continue smiling.

Jannik Sinner said in his pre-tournament press conference

During the ban, Sinner stayed mostly with his family in northern Italy, in the Alto Adige region. Being close to home gave him comfort and time to think. It was a quiet period compared to the huge crowds that later welcomed him back in Rome.

He also spent time in Monaco, where he lives. There, he reconnected with friends and tried other sports like cycling. This break gave him a chance to refresh both mentally and physically.

Only slowly did Sinner return to tennis. His comeback at the Italian Open was emotional, especially with fans cheering him on and celebrating his return. It was a full-circle moment, from a private break to a public celebration.