Jannik Sinner could be facing a suspension that may keep him out of the French Open and Wimbledon next year, even if the ban proposed by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) is not as severe as initially suggested.
In March, Sinner tested positive for clostebol, an anabolic steroid. However, an independent tribunal determined that the steroid entered his system through a massage from his physiotherapist, who had used a spray containing the substance to treat a cut on their finger. Despite this explanation, WADA has appealed the decision to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), seeking a suspension of one to two years for the 23-year-old Italian.
In a statement, WADA explained, “It is WADA’s view that the finding of ‘no fault or negligence’ was not correct under the applicable rules.” The agency has clarified that it is not asking for any disqualification of past results, except for the one already imposed by the tribunal.
Although the CAS hearing regarding WADA’s appeal won’t happen until February, ensuring that Sinner can still compete at the Australian Open in January, the timing of the hearing could severely impact his ability to play in the French Open in June. With the CAS hearing likely to take place before Roland Garros, Sinner’s participation in the event could be in jeopardy.
A ban ranging from one to two years would be a major setback for Sinner’s career, but there remains a possibility that the ban could be shortened if the CAS finds him partially at fault. WADA’s approach in similar cases has been to hold athletes responsible for any banned substances in their system, which will be crucial in evaluating Sinner’s positive test for clostebol. The small amount of the substance found in his system suggests that it was unlikely to have enhanced his performance, yet WADA’s position on accountability for all substances remains firm.
Sinner’s case differs from that of Iga Swiatek, who also failed a drug test in August. Swiatek claimed that her positive test was the result of melatonin contamination, a substance she had taken to help with jet lag. In contrast, Sinner argues that the clostebol came from a massage cream, but WADA is expected to maintain its strict stance that athletes must be responsible for everything in their bodies.
However, Sinner might find some comfort in recent comments by WADA Director Oliver Niggli. Niggli acknowledged that modern technology has made it easier to detect trace amounts of banned substances, leading to more frequent findings of microdosing. “Today there is a problem of contamination,” Niggli told L’Equipe. “The quantities found are so small that it is possible to become contaminated by doing even trivial things. We will have to open a working table to understand how to manage this situation.”
Niggli emphasized that, while the detection capabilities have improved, this should not be confused with a rise in doping. The challenge now is to determine where to draw the line in terms of acceptable thresholds for contamination. “We need to understand whether we are ready to accept microdosing and where it is right to stop,” he added.
If Sinner were handed a three-month ban, his chances of competing in the French Open, Wimbledon, and US Open in 2025 would be slim, with a significant drop in his ranking. A suspension of six months or longer could end his season entirely. However, he remains hopeful of a favorable outcome.
Speaking after Italy’s Davis Cup victory, Sinner reflected on the emotional toll the situation has taken. “Of course, it’s in the head a little bit,” he admitted. “We had three hearings, all of which came out in a positive way, so hopefully the next one will be the same. But the most important thing is that the people around me trust me. That’s why I’ve been able to keep playing at this level.”
Sinner went on to discuss the emotional ups and downs he has faced throughout this ordeal, noting that dealing with setbacks is part of the process. “Life gives you difficulties, and you just have to stand up for them,” he said. He added that, while the outside world may not always understand the challenges athletes face, he remains focused on what he can control, maintaining a level-headed approach as he waits for the CAS ruling.
Taking some time off will be beneficial for Sinner, who acknowledged the long season and the importance of recharging. “It was a very long season, and we were joking that we wouldn’t be able to start again in just one month if we had to jump back into tournaments immediately. You need to enjoy the break, spend time with good people, and reset,” he shared.
While Sinner may have thought his doping issue was resolved after he avoided a suspension earlier, it’s clear that the matter will continue to hang over his 2025 season. As the appeal process unfolds, the 23-year-old’s future in tennis remains uncertain, but he remains determined to control what he can and continue competing at the highest level.