Alexander Zverev calls for change to ‘annoying’ tennis doping system amid Jannik Sinner ban, ‘I think that is wrong’

Alexander Zverev has voiced strong concerns over the current anti-doping regulations in professional tennis, calling the system “annoying” and in need of reform—particularly in light of Jannik Sinner’s recent suspension.

Zverev, now ranked world No. 2 after his victory at the BMW Open last week, has struggled to capitalize on Sinner’s absence from the ATP Tour. The Italian is currently serving a three-month ban, having accepted a plea deal from the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) earlier this year. He’s not alone—former world No. 1 Iga Swiatek also served a brief suspension last season.

As Zverev prepares for the Madrid Open, where he is a two-time champion, he didn’t just field questions about his game. The German spoke candidly about the toll the current anti-doping process takes on players.

“It’s Taking Away Our Freedom” – Zverev Speaks Out

Speaking in his pre-tournament press conference, Zverev shared a personal anecdote highlighting his frustration with the strict whereabouts rule:

“We have to give our location every single day for a one-hour time slot. But even if they show up outside of that window, we’re still expected to be available,” Zverev explained.

“Last December, I was picking up my daughter from the airport in Nice. My time slot was 7 or 8am—they came at 9pm. They called and told me I had to come back immediately. I told them I couldn’t because I had a three-year-old with me, but they insisted.

“That’s not right. It’s like they’re taking away our freedom. If they want to test within the time slot, fine, that’s the rule. But outside of that, there should be flexibility. My daughter should be the priority—not dropping everything because someone decided to come late.”

Zverev added that although contamination awareness has increased following Sinner and Swiatek’s suspensions, the overall process hasn’t improved for players.

“Nothing has changed for us. It’s not about testing itself—we all understand the need for clean sport—but the system around it needs to be better.”

Other Players Voice Concerns

Zverev is not alone in his criticism. Aryna Sabalenka and Andrey Rublev have also expressed anxiety over the system’s rigidity and the fear of being unfairly penalized.

Impact on Rankings and Sinner’s Return

When Sinner was suspended in February, he led Zverev by 3,965 ATP ranking points. Now, that gap has narrowed significantly:

Zverev and Alcaraz have a chance to close in further at the Madrid Open. Sinner is defending 200 points, while Zverev and Alcaraz are defending 90 and 190 points respectively. With Alcaraz expected to withdraw due to injury, Zverev could reduce the gap to just 745 points if he clinches the title.

All three stars are slated to compete at the Italian Open in May, where Sinner will make his return.