In a candid interview, Simone Vagnozzi, one of Jannik Sinner’s trusted coaches, has shed new light on the World No. 1’s recent absence from the ATP Tour. Speaking to La Repubblica, Vagnozzi addressed the three-month suspension Sinner served earlier this year, defending the young Italian’s integrity and insisting: “He did nothing wrong.”
A Storm No One Saw Coming
The tennis world was stunned when Sinner—reigning World No. 1 and a dominant force on the ATP Tour—was sidelined due to a doping-related controversy. Although he tested positive on two occasions in March 2024, Sinner was ultimately cleared of wrongdoing. However, in a strategic move to avoid prolonged legal battles and distractions, he accepted a temporary suspension in February 2025.
“It was a shock,” Vagnozzi admitted. “Anyone who read the documents knows Jannik didn’t do anything wrong. I wouldn’t wish that situation on anyone.”
Turning Setbacks Into Stepping Stones
Vagnozzi shared that the ordeal, while difficult, became a moment of reflection and recalibration. He stressed that in both life and tennis, it’s crucial to adapt and grow from adversity.
“We had to accept what happened and make the most of the situation,” he explained. “It gave us time to reset, train with purpose, and come back stronger.”
The Meteoric Rise of a Champion
Sinner’s path to the top has been nothing short of meteoric. Since his breakthrough at Wimbledon 2023, where he reached his first Grand Slam semi-final, the Italian star has been on a historic run. His accomplishments include:
- Three Grand Slam titles
- Nitto ATP Finals champion
- Three ATP Masters 1000 titles
- World No.1 ranking held for 45 weeks
Highlights of his rise include victories over top rivals like Carlos Alcaraz and Daniil Medvedev, especially during his impressive run in Beijing 2023.
A Strategic Evolution
Vagnozzi praised Sinner’s continuous development, both mentally and technically. He pointed out the Italian’s growing maturity on court, smarter shot selection, and improved net play.
As comparisons between Sinner and Alcaraz continue to dominate tennis conversations, Vagnozzi remained diplomatic.
“Their paths are different. In the end, their careers will be judged by what they’ve achieved over time, not day by day.”
The Road Ahead: All Eyes on Rome
With the ATP Masters 1000 in Rome on the horizon, Sinner is set to return to action in front of his home crowd. As the tennis world watches closely, the 23-year-old phenom will aim to reassert his dominance and silence any remaining doubts.
