Jannik Sinner Reflects on Difficult 3-Month Doping Suspension: “It Was Very Tough at Times”
Jannik Sinner has opened up for the first time about his three-month doping ban, describing the experience as “very difficult at times.” In a recent interview, the world number one acknowledged the emotional toll the suspension took on him and the challenges he faced in the aftermath.
“I accepted the suspension quickly, but it wasn’t easy. We chose the lesser evil, though it was unfair, and it could have been much worse,” said Sinner. “I was fragile after everything that happened. There were reactions I didn’t expect, but through it all, the people close to me gave me the strength to understand the situation and move forward.”
Sinner’s ban, which he accepted after testing positive for traces of clostebol, will end on May 4. His return to competition will coincide with the Rome Open, but he admits the pressure of returning to the spotlight won’t be simple. “After the decision, it took me some time to find myself again,” he said. “There were also external factors that made things harder. I still need to ‘digest’ it, but I’m excited to return to Rome. However, with all the attention on me, it won’t be easy.”
Sinner is preparing for his comeback to the ATP Tour, but the emotional and public challenges of the past months have made his journey all the more complex. “It’s been a tough period, but I’m ready to move on, and with the support of my family and friends, I know I can get through it,” he concluded.
