Jannik Sinner’s suspension leaves a void: Brad Gilbert suggests Italian would’ve dominated Indian Wells
Jannik Sinner’s Suspension Leaves a Void: Brad Gilbert Believes Italian Would Have Dominated Indian Wells
With Jannik Sinner serving a three-month suspension, tennis analyst Brad Gilbert has weighed in on the Italian’s absence, suggesting that Sinner would have been the dominant force at Indian Wells had he been allowed to compete.
Sinner, who stormed into 2025 with back-to-back titles, including his second consecutive Australian Open crown, was widely regarded as the player to beat on hard courts before his unexpected ban.
Gilbert: “Sinner Would Have Been the Clear Favorite”
Speaking on ESPN, Gilbert expressed confidence that Sinner’s form leading into Indian Wells would have made him the top contender.
“Given how he started the season, I have no doubt he would’ve been the guy to beat here. The way he dismantled Zverev in Melbourne, his composure, and his shot-making—it’s a level we haven’t seen in a while.”
With Carlos Alcaraz, the defending champion, bowing out in the semifinals to Jack Draper, and other top seeds struggling for consistency, many believe Sinner’s presence would have changed the tournament’s outcome.
A Rankings Controversy?
Despite his suspension, Sinner remains the ATP World No. 1, thanks to his significant points lead before his enforced break. This has sparked debate among fans and analysts, with some arguing that his continued reign at the top is unfair to active competitors.
However, Gilbert dismissed the criticism, emphasizing that Sinner’s dominance before his suspension earned him that cushion.
“The guy put in the work, won big titles, and built his lead. It’s not his fault no one has stepped up enough to overtake him.”
What’s Next for Sinner?
Sinner’s suspension is set to end on May 4, just in time for the Rome Masters 1000 and the European clay-court season. If he returns in top form, many expect him to be the favorite for Roland Garros as well.
For now, his absence continues to be felt, and as Gilbert suggests, Indian Wells might have had a very different champion had the Italian been in the mix.
