Jannik Sinner’s doping controversy once thought to be behind him, is far from over.
Despite being cleared of wrongdoing earlier this year, the tennis star now faces renewed scrutiny as the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) files an appeal, threatening his career once more.
The 23-year-old Italian, fresh off a US Open victory, tested positive for an anabolic steroid twice in March.
An independent tribunal in August ruled Sinner bore “no fault or negligence” for the results, attributing the positive test to a massage spray used by his physio.
While the ruling spared him punishment, WADA isn’t satisfied.
In its appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), WADA seeks a ban of up to two years, disputing the tribunal’s decision.
The agency insists the finding of “no fault” was incorrect under anti-doping regulations. However, WADA has not sought to disqualify any results beyond what the initial ruling imposed.
The International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) has come under fire for its handling of Sinner’s case, with critics alleging leniency due to his stature in the sport
In response, the ITIA issued a fresh statement, clarifying its role and reaffirming its commitment to fairness.
Karen Moorhouse, CEO of the ITIA, emphasized that the case was handled according to strict guidelines set by WADA and the Tennis Anti-Doping Programme.
“We manage every case based on its facts, science, and unique circumstances,” she said, noting that the focus of the appeal is the tribunal’s interpretation of Sinner’s fault rather than the ITIA’s investigation.
With Sinner’s future hanging in the balance, the tennis community will be watching closely as this legal battle unfolds.
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