Jannik Sinner banned from competing for 3 months due to doping case?

Jannik Sinner won his second Grand Slam title in 2024

Jannik Sinner has been handed a three-month suspension following a settlement with the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) after testing positive for Clostebol, an anabolic steroid banned in professional sports.

The suspension, which will run from February 9 to May 4, means the 23-year-old Italian will miss several major tournaments, including the Indian Wells, Miami, Monte Carlo, and Madrid Opens. However, he is expected to return in time for the Italian Open in Rome (May 7-18), just a few weeks ahead of the French Open (May 25 – June 8).

The case stems from two positive doping tests last March. Initially, the International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) cleared Sinner, accepting his explanation that the substance had entered his system through accidental contamination — a trace amount transferred from his coach, who had applied the substance to a cut on his finger.

WADA, however, appealed the decision to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) in Lausanne, seeking at least a one-year ban. Both parties reached a settlement, reducing the suspension to three months.

Sinner's absence is a significant blow to the ATP Tour, given his recent dominance. After winning his first Grand Slam at the Australian Open in January, he was in top form and seen as a major contender for upcoming clay-court events. His victory in Melbourne secured him a spot in the next Grand Slam.

Missing both Indian Wells and Miami—two prestigious ATP 1000 Masters tournaments—will impact his battle for the No. 1 ATP ranking.

Now, the Italian will focus on preparing for his return in Rome, where he aims to regain momentum ahead of Roland Garros.

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