Jannik Sinner remains unable to compete on the professional tour until May 4. The world No. 1—who was fully acquitted in the first instance by an independent tribunal—reached an agreement with WADA last month, leading to his absence from six tournaments, including four Masters 1000 events.
Initially, the Italian star was reluctant to accept this compromise, but his legal team advised that it was the best course of action to avoid greater risks before the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) in Lausanne.
WADA had sought a suspension of one to two years, a penalty that the 23-year-old from Sesto Pusteria could not afford to risk, as it would have severely impacted both his reputation and career.
Lopez Stands by Sinner
Sinner’s suspension has sparked division in the tennis world. Some argue that he was unfairly penalized despite his innocence, while others believe he received leniency from governing bodies.
In an interview with ‘MARCA,’ former world No. 12 and current Mutua Madrid Open director Feliciano Lopez reiterated his support for Sinner: “I have always believed in his innocence and have never wavered in my stance. He has demonstrated that he was not at fault, and I genuinely do not understand why he must remain sidelined for three months.”
Lopez acknowledged the argument that players bear some responsibility for their team members’ actions but found it difficult to accept that an entirely innocent athlete should be suspended at all. “I respect differing opinions and am open to discussion, but I am eagerly awaiting Sinner’s return,” he added.
The reigning Australian Open champion is set to make his comeback at the Rome Masters 1000 in May.
During his enforced break, the three-time Grand Slam champion has been focusing on his physical conditioning, training intensively with fitness coach Marco Panichi and physiotherapist Ulises Badio to ensure he returns at peak performance.
