Jannik Sinner has agreed to a three-month suspension from tennis following the world number one’s acknowledgment that errors made by his team resulted in him testing positive for traces of the banned substance clostebol on two occasions in March of the previous year.
The suspension, effective from February 9 to May 4, allows Sinner to participate in the French Open, the second Grand Slam of the year, commencing on May 25 at Roland Garros.
In his statement, Sinner noted that the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) recognized that he “had no intent and did not gain any competitive advantage from the two positive tests.”
The Australian Open champion has consistently maintained that clostebol entered his system when his physiotherapist applied a spray containing the substance to treat a cut, followed by massage and sports therapy.
“This situation has been a concern for nearly a year, and the process could have extended for a considerable time, with a decision potentially not reached until the end of the year,” Sinner remarked.
“I have always acknowledged my responsibility for my team and understand that WADA’s stringent regulations serve as a vital safeguard for the sport I cherish. Therefore, I have accepted WADA’s proposal to conclude these proceedings with a three-month sanction.”
WADA stated separately that “Sinner did not intend to cheat,” but emphasized that he must serve his suspension as he is accountable for the actions of his team.
The agreement between Sinner and WADA ensures that he will be able to compete in front of his home crowd at the Rome Open, which begins shortly after the conclusion of his suspension and serves as the final major clay court event before Roland Garros.