Jannik Sinner details dark moments after doping news: "I don't wish anyone to go through what I went through”
ATP
Jannik
Sinner recalls the moment he learned of his positive doping result back in
March this year. The World No. 1 received the news after participating in
Indian Wells, where he tested positive for clostebol. Eight days later, a new
test again showed the presence of the same substance.
After
several months without the case being public, the ITIA announced in a statement
in August that Sinner had tested positive in anti-doping tests, but he would
not face suspension as it was deemed an unintentional contamination. Still,
this decision drew criticism, with claims that the World No. 1 had received
preferential treatment compared to other players.
"I really understood who my friends are"
Despite not
being suspended, WADA decided to appeal the doping verdict, seeking a
suspension of up to two years for the Italian. There is still no confirmation
of the appeal results, but at least the 23-year-old player will be able to
finish the season as planned.
Read also
Just before
his debut in the ATP Finals, Sinner spoke about the moment he learned of his
positive doping result. "I don't wish anyone to go through what I went
through. I was in Monte Carlo, and Alex Vittur called me and said, 'Jannik,
you're positive.' I replied, 'Yes Alex, I'm always positive.' And he said, 'No,
Jannik, you're positive for doping.'
"I had
a moment of total darkness; I didn't know what to say. Nothing came out of my
mouth. I immediately tried to understand how it could have happened—I hadn’t
done anything. I didn’t even want to believe it: I felt lost," he added.
“It was
tough. I couldn't talk to anyone about it, and those who knew me and saw me
play could tell something was wrong. At Wimbledon, I looked pale on the court,
and even afterward, I was scared... in Cincinnati, I went to the club
wondering, 'How will other players look at me? What will they think of me?'
That’s when I really understood who my friends are."
The Italian
prepares to debut in the Ilie Nastase Group. He will face Alex de Minaur (7th
seed) in the night session in Turin. The local star seeks to improve on his
result from last year, when he reached the final but ultimately lost to Novak
Djokovic in the title match.
Back in Torino 🇮🇹🤝🏻 pic.twitter.com/rBsCQSATMT
— Jannik Sinner (@janniksin) November 6, 2024
Cristhián AvilaTennis Journalist
Cristhián Ávila is a tennis journalist based in Santiago, Chile, and has been part of the TennisUpToDate team since early 2023. He covers the ATP and WTA Tours as well as all four Grand Slams, producing breaking news, match reports, analysis, and regular liveblogs from major tournaments.
His reporting combines statistical analysis with clear explanation, helping readers understand tactical developments, player form, and broader storylines across the tour. Working fluently in both Spanish and English, Cristhián collaborates with an international editorial team and contributes to comprehensive global coverage. As part of his work, he has conducted interviews and media interactions with leading figures in the sport, including Caroline Wozniacki and John McEnroe.
In his journalism, Cristhián places strong emphasis on careful sourcing, editorial accuracy, and updating articles promptly when new, verified information becomes available. His coverage is grounded in research, context, and direct engagement with professional tennis.
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