Jannik Sinner’s former physiotherapist, Giacomo Naldi, is pushing back against claims that he alone was responsible for the Italian tennis star’s failed drug tests.

In August, the International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) revealed that Sinner had dodged a ban after testing positive for clostebol, an anabolic steroid, back in March.

While the independent tribunal ruled that Sinner bore “no fault or negligence,” the fallout has sparked significant controversy.

The positive tests occurred during and after the Indian Wells Masters, on March 10 and 18, leaving many shocked.

Sinner attributed the steroid’s presence in his system to a massage from Naldi, during which a spray containing clostebol was used to treat a cut.

Sinner cut ties with Naldi and fitness coach Umberto Ferrara following the incident, citing a loss of confidence.

Despite the tribunal’s decision, the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) is not letting the issue rest.

Earlier this month, WADA appealed to the Court of Arbitration for Sport, seeking a ban of up to two years for Sinner, arguing that the ruling of ‘no fault or negligence’ was incorrect.

Naldi, while tight-lipped due to ongoing legal matters, expressed his hope to share his side of the story soon.

“I can’t say much now, but I hope to eventually explain what really happened,” he said at the Open Food Factory project event.

“The public has been led to believe it was solely my fault, but that’s not true for anyone who’s read the full ruling.”

Naldi also spoke about his ongoing relationship with Sinner, showing there’s still a personal connection despite the professional split.

“When my daughter Letizia was born, Sinner was kind enough to write to me,” Naldi shared.

As the case progresses, all eyes are on WADA’s appeal and whether it will result in a heavier penalty for the young tennis star, whose career hangs in the balance.

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