“I Have Been Using It for Years,” Jannik Sinner’s Doping Saga Revisited by Former Fitness Coach in a Bold Stance
“I’ve Used It for Years” – Jannik Sinner’s Ex-Fitness Coach Speaks Out on Doping Controversy
The Debate Continues
Tennis may be an individual sport, but no win—or scandal—happens in isolation. Jannik Sinner, the current World No. 1, found himself at the center of a doping controversy after testing positive for Clostebol, a banned substance. His defense? An over-the-counter spray, purchased by his fitness coach, Umberto Ferrara, was used by his physiotherapist, Giacomo Naldi, to treat a cut. According to Sinner, Naldi later gave him a massage, leading to unintentional exposure.
Despite an independent tribunal ruling that Sinner bore “no fault or negligence,” the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) appealed, arguing that athletes must be held accountable for their teams. Facing the risk of a year-long suspension, Sinner ultimately agreed to a three-month ban.
Now, for the first time, Ferrara is breaking his silence.
Ferrara Defends Himself: “I Was Blameless”
Speaking to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Ferrara insisted he was not responsible for Sinner’s positive test.
“I have been using [Trofodermin] for years as prescribed by a specialist for a chronic condition. I knew it was banned, so I always kept it locked in my personal bathroom. I never gave it to Naldi—I only suggested it because he had a persistent cut that made his job difficult.”
Ferrara also claims he explicitly warned Naldi about the risks:
“I made it very clear that Jannik should not come into contact with the product. Naldi didn’t deny being informed—he just said he didn’t remember.”
Sinner’s Legal Battle: Why Accept a Ban If He Was Innocent?
Sinner initially refused to accept the three-month suspension. His lawyer, Jamie Singer, explained to BBC Sport why they ultimately settled:
“Sinner asked, ‘Why should I accept a ban when the tribunal ruled in my favor?’ But I told him, ‘WADA is pushing for a one-year ban. If we go to court, we don’t know what three judges will decide. Three months is a safer option.’”
While Sinner’s suspension means missing major tournaments like the Sunshine Double, Monte Carlo, and Madrid, he will return just in time for the Italian Open on May 7. Despite his absence, his ranking cushion ensures he will likely remain World No. 1.
Sinner’s Return: Will He Be the Same Dominant Force?
With his comeback just weeks away, the tennis world is watching closely. Will Sinner reclaim his unstoppable form, or will this controversy leave a lasting impact?
