Jannik Sinner’s fitness coach publicly states how he feels after world number one handed a three month ban from tennis

Jannik Sinner Suspended for Three Months After Accepting WADA Deal

Jannik Sinner has been banned from the ATP Tour for three months after reaching an agreement with the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA).

The Italian star tested positive for the banned substance clostebol twice last year, leading to his suspension until May 4. While Sinner is unable to compete until the Italian Open, he will continue training in Monte Carlo as permitted under the rules.

Ben Shelton Reacts to Sinner’s Ban

Sinner’s suspension has sparked a strong reaction across the tennis world, with Ben Shelton responding bluntly to the news.

Meanwhile, Sinner’s team has undergone major changes following the controversy. After reportedly being exposed to clostebol through a massage from his former physiotherapist Giacomo Naldi, Sinner decided to part ways with both Naldi and his fitness coach Umberto Ferrera.

Sinner’s New Fitness Coach Speaks Out

In September 2024, Sinner brought in Novak Djokovic’s former fitness coach, Marco Panichi, who has since helped him claim titles at the Australian Open, ATP Finals, and Shanghai Masters.

Speaking to Sky Sports Italy, Panichi addressed Sinner’s suspension, choosing to see it as an opportunity for long-term improvement.

“The fact that we have so much time is almost like planning for a track and field season,” said Panichi.
“We can go deeper into specific aspects of his game. These ‘Formula 1 machines’ are already finely tuned, but from a motivational standpoint, knowing we have this time to improve certain things is a real boost.”

While Panichi expressed his gratitude for the additional training period, he also acknowledged that it was not an ideal situation for Sinner.

Las Vegas Exhibition with Taylor Fritz Canceled

Despite his suspension, Sinner was originally set to play an exhibition match in Las Vegas against Taylor Fritz. However, the event was postponed after both players withdrew—Sinner due to his ban, and Fritz citing an ongoing abdominal injury.

Although the men’s event was canceled, the women’s match between Aryna Sabalenka and Naomi Osaka is still set to take place on March 1 in Las Vegas.

Following the exhibition, both the ATP and WTA Tours will shift their focus to Indian Wells, one of the most prestigious tournaments on the tennis calendar.