World number one Jannik Sinner has revealed he seriously considered walking away from tennis during his doping case, describing how difficult it was to feel “comfortable” in the locker room amid the controversy surrounding his positive tests.
Sinner, 23, returned two positive tests for clostebol, a banned substance, in March 2024. He accepted a three-month ban from the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) in February, just weeks after successfully defending his Australian Open title. Although an independent panel cleared him of any intentional wrongdoing, WADA appealed, initially seeking a ban of up to two years. Ultimately, a settlement was reached, resulting in a much shorter sanction, which will see his ban end on May 5, 2025.
Speaking to Italian broadcaster RAI, Sinner shared how the doping case affected his mental state, particularly during the Australian Open. He admitted that he “didn’t feel comfortable” and felt the scrutiny of fellow players. “It was a bit like some players looked at me differently, and I didn’t like it at all,” he said. “I felt like being in tennis, with that atmosphere, was too much.”
The young Italian went on to explain how his usually lighthearted presence in the locker room was met with a different atmosphere, making him feel increasingly isolated. “I was always someone who joked about, who went in the dressing room speaking with whoever, but it became different. I wasn’t at ease,” he said. “Maybe after Australia, a little bit of free time, in the sense where I take a little break, it will do me good.”
Despite the overwhelming pressure, Sinner is expected to return to action at the Italian Open in Rome (6-18 May) after his suspension ends. WADA acknowledged that Sinner did not gain any competitive advantage from the banned substance, which was attributed to accidental contamination. This settlement has sparked some criticism, particularly from former players, including Serena Williams, who claimed that she would have faced a far harsher punishment.
However, Sinner chose not to engage with critics, expressing that he is at peace with his journey. “What matters to me is that I know what I’ve been through. It was difficult, and I wouldn’t wish anyone to go through that as an innocent person,” he added.
A Difficult Road Ahead, but a Return to Tennis Imminent
Sinner’s case has been one of the most talked-about topics in tennis in 2024. His mental and emotional struggles during the doping investigation highlight the toll that off-court controversies can take on athletes. However, the world number one seems determined to put the episode behind him and focus on his return to the sport he loves.
With his ban almost over, all eyes will be on Sinner when he returns to the court at the Italian Open in early May. Will he reclaim his spot as the top player in the world, or will the mental strain from the doping controversy linger on?
