“You have an abu$e case settled outside the court” – Fans slam Alexander Zverev’s take on Jannik Sinner’s case
Alexander Zverev Questions Jannik Sinner’s Doping Ban, Faces Fan Backlash
Alexander Zverev has stirred controversy with his comments on Jannik Sinner’s three-month doping suspension, suggesting the punishment was either too lenient or unnecessary. His remarks have sparked backlash from fans, who questioned his stance given his own past controversies.
Zverev Weighs in on Sinner’s Suspension
Speaking at a pre-tournament press conference ahead of the 2025 Rio Open, Zverev addressed the fallout from Sinner’s negotiated settlement with WADA, which allowed him to avoid a Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) hearing initially scheduled for April.
“It’s a weird situation because it’s been a very long process,” Zverev said. “First, he was cleared. Then WADA wanted a second look. To me, there are two options: Either you have no fault and get no suspension at all, or you do have fault, and three months is not a real suspension for taking steroids.”
Tennis Fans Slam Zverev for Hypocrisy
Zverev’s comments did not sit well with many tennis fans, particularly on Reddit, where users were quick to highlight his domestic violence allegations and his out-of-court settlement with Brenda Patea, the mother of his daughter.
One fan mocked Zverev’s 2025 Australian Open tears, writing, “Sinner should have just let him cry on stage at AO ’25.” Another added, “Zverev of all people should understand what an out-of-court settlement means.”
Others pointed out his perceived double standards, with one remarking, “If you have fault, then for domestic violence, an out-of-court settlement is not a punishment either.”
What’s Next for Zverev and Sinner?
Zverev is set to begin his 2025 Rio Open campaign against Yunchaokete Bu on February 18, following his quarterfinal exit at the Argentina Open.
Meanwhile, Sinner remains sidelined until May 4, missing key ATP Masters 1000 events such as Indian Wells, Miami, Monte-Carlo, and Madrid. However, he will make his comeback at the Italian Open, just in time for the 2025 French Open.
