Jannik Sinner reveals his ‘fearful’ thoughts of fellow players after failed doping test
Jannik Sinner's doping case will run after the Australian Open, with WADA's verdict remaining unresolved for now.
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Jannik Sinner (via X)
Jannik Sinner has shared his fear of losing support from other players after failing two drug tests. In a heartfelt interview, he spoke about how hard it was to deal with the situation.
In his interview with Esquire, Sinner did not address the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) appeal. But he reflected on how scared he felt when the failed tests became public. He worried most about how other players would view him.
It was a tough time. I couldn’t talk to anyone about it. I couldn’t vent or get help. All the people who knew me and watched me play understood that there was something wrong with me. I had sleepless nights because even if you are certain of your innocence, you know that these things are complex. Everyone immediately told the truth and that allowed me to play. But at Wimbledon, I was white.
Jannik Sinner said on Esquire
The world No. 1 tested positive for a banned substance in March. However, the International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) found he was not at fault. They accepted his explanation that clostebol, a muscle-growth agent, entered his body accidentally. It was from a product his team used to treat a small wound.
And even afterwards, my feeling with people was fearful. I went into training at the Cincinnati clubhouse and thought, ‘How are they looking at me? What do they really think of me?’. I realised who my real friends are.
Jannik Sinner added
Despite this, the decision faced criticism in the tennis community. Now, Sinner’s troubles might continue into 2025. The WADA is appealing the ITIA’s ruling. They are seeking a ban of one to two years for the Italian star.
Jannik Sinner reveals how he changed his rivalry against Daniil Medvedev
World No.1 Jannik Sinner has named Daniil Medvedev as the player who made him change his game the most. He claimed that the Russian has created the toughest challenges for him on the court.
My tennis is versatile, but, for example, I still don’t know how to play the net game well. A player who has made me grow a lot is Medvedev. I had never done serve and volley, and he forced me to practise that to try to beat him. Against some players, I have to do more of a long backhand.
Jannik Sinner said on Esquire
At first, Medvedev often defeated Sinner in their early matches. But in 2024, Sinner adjusted his strategy and turned things around. In the last 12 months, the duo have played several matches in ATP events and Grand Slam tournaments. Medvedev only managed one win, beating Sinner in the Wimbledon quarterfinals.
Their most exciting match came in the Australian Open final. Sinner made an incredible comeback after being two sets down to win his first Grand Slam title. It was the second time Medvedev lost a two-set lead in an Australian Open final.
Sinner is still waiting for a decision on WADA’s appeal of his drug case. However, this ruling will come after the Australian Open, where Sinner will defend his title next month.
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Fahad Hamid
(684 Articles Published)