Jannik Sinner has agreed to a three-month tennis suspension after admitting that mistakes by his team led to him testing positive for traces of the banned substance clostebol in March last year.
The suspension, which runs from February 9 to May 4, will allow Sinner to compete in the French Open, the second Grand Slam of the season, beginning on May 25 at Roland Garros.
In a statement, Sinner confirmed that the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) acknowledged he “had no intent and did not derive any competitive advantage from the two positive tests.”
The Australian Open champion has consistently maintained that clostebol entered his system when his physiotherapist used a spray containing the substance to treat a cut, followed by massage and sports therapy.
“This case has been hanging over me for nearly a year, and I was facing a lengthy process that could have stretched well into the year,” Sinner said. “I have always taken responsibility for my team and understand that WADA’s strict rules are in place to protect the sport I love. On this basis, I have accepted WADA’s offer to resolve the issue with a three-month suspension.”
WADA also clarified that Sinner “did not intend to cheat,” but emphasized that as the player, he is accountable for the actions of his entourage.
As part of the agreement, Sinner will be eligible to play in the Rome Open, which begins just after the end of his suspension. The Rome Open is a key event in the lead-up to the French Open, and Sinner will have the opportunity to compete in front of his home crowd.
AFP
