Sinner's doping case shakes up tennis world, says former No.1 McNamee

Saturday, 28 September 2024 at 19:30

Former doubles world No.1 Paul McNamee has stated that Sinner's doping case is “sending shockwaves” through the tennis world. On Saturday, it was announced that the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) is in the process of appealing the International Tennis Integrity Agency's (ITIA) decision regarding the Italian player's case.

The current world No. 1 was declared to have “no fault or negligence” after two positive tests for clostebol during Indian Wells back in March. The news was made public almost six months after the positive test, and it only came to light once Sinner’s appeal determined his innocence.

Sinner was reportedly contaminated accidentally after being treated by physiotherapist Giacomo Naldi, who used a prohibited spray on hand wounds. When treating Sinner with bare hands, minimal contamination occurred, which, according to the investigation, would not have affected the two-time Grand Slam champion's performance.

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Following WADA’s announcement, Paul McNamee, a five-time doubles Grand Slam champion, was among the first to react on X (formerly Twitter), saying: “Gee that’s sending shockwaves through tennis that WADA are appealing the ITIA decision to the Court of Arbitration of Sport in the Jannik Sinner case… that’s a very big call and I wasn’t expecting that.”

In WADA’s statement on 26th September, they aim to secure a suspension of between one and two years for Sinner: “It is WADA’s view that the finding of ‘no fault or negligence’ was not correct under the applicable rules. WADA is seeking a period of ineligibility of between one and two years. WADA is not seeking a disqualification of any results, save that which has already been imposed by the tribunal of first instance."

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“As this matter is now pending before CAS, WADA will make no further comment at this time.”

No confirmation date for the final decision has been set. Meanwhile, Sinner is competing at the China Open, where he has already secured victories over Nicolas Jarry and Roman Safiulin, and is awaiting his quarterfinal match against Jiri Lehecka.

Paul McNamee

@PaulFMcNamee

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Gee that’s sending shockwaves through tennis that WADA are appealing the ITIA decision to the Court of Arbitration of Sport in the Jannik Sinner case…. that’s a very big call and I wasn’t expecting that

8:12 AM · Sep 28, 2024

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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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