Suspension blocks Jannik Sinner from training with Anna Kalinskaya—what’s next?

The controversial suspension of World No. 1 Jannik Sinner will keep him off the Tour for three months, prohibiting him from training at ATP or WTA facilities. Could training with his girlfriend, Anna Kalinskaya, be an option? Does the rulebook allow it?

The suspension, which began on 9 February, will last for three months, meaning the World No. 1 will be eligible to return at his home tournament, the Italian Open Masters 1000 in Rome.

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Will Sinner return at the same level as before his suspension?

Although he will miss several tournaments and lose a significant number of ranking points, his No. 1 spot does not seem to be under immediate threat.

Sinner’s doping suspension was the result of an agreement with WADA, which withdrew its appeal and settled on a three-month ban. This not only prevents him from competing but also prohibits him from training at ATP, WTA, ITF, or any affiliated tennis facilities.

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The 23-year-old is unlikely to take a prolonged break that could affect his match rhythm. He still has the support of his coaching team, Simone Vagnozzi and Darren Cahill, who have been with him since before the controversial case and whom he has chosen to keep by his side.

However, Sinner is not allowed to train with any active ATP or WTA players. Training with his girlfriend, Anna Kalinskaya, is not an option, nor can he practice with fellow players, even at non-official tennis courts.

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The three-time Grand Slam champion will therefore have to train alone and rely on sparring partners, which could impact his competitive level upon return. His next steps remain uncertain. At least in his first week after the suspension, he was spotted in the Italian Alps enjoying a few days of skiing, but he will likely begin his preparation soon to ensure a strong comeback.

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