Boris Becker drops 2-word reaction to Matteo Berrettini supporting Jannik Sinner after 3-month doping ban saga
Boris Becker Reacts as Matteo Berrettini Supports Jannik Sinner Amid Doping Controversy
Former World No. 1 Boris Becker delivered a short but impactful response after Matteo Berrettini publicly supported Jannik Sinner following his three-month doping saga.
Sinner tested positive for the banned anabolic steroid Clostebol in March last year. However, the International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) ruled that the substance entered his system unintentionally and did not impose any penalty.
According to Sinner, the positive test stemmed from his former physiotherapist, Giacomo Naldi, who had used Trofodermin, a Clostebol-containing spray, to treat a finger injury before massaging Sinner’s legs.
Despite initially being cleared, the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) appealed the ruling in September 2024, seeking a one-to-two-year ban. However, on February 15, 2024, Sinner accepted a three-month suspension, taking responsibility for his team’s actions.
The ban ignited debate within the tennis world, with few openly supporting the Italian. Matteo Berrettini was among the rare voices of encouragement.
Berrettini Stands by Sinner: “He’ll Be Back Stronger”
Speaking to La Stampa, Berrettini expressed sympathy for Sinner, emphasizing his belief that the World No. 1 had no intent to cheat.
“I believe in sport. I don’t know what happened between the various organizations—I’m not a lawyer, and it’s not my place. I’m only sorry for a guy like Sinner who, as the papers show, was the victim of a mistake. But Jannik is stronger than all of us… he’ll be back.”
The 2021 Wimbledon finalist added:
“I have always supported Sinner and believe the positive test was the result of a mistake. I can imagine this is a difficult time for him. Have I written to him? No, I prefer to respect his privacy.”
Boris Becker then showed his support for Berrettini’s stance, posting a simple but powerful two-word message on X (formerly Twitter):
“Bravo Matteo!”
Becker Also Responds to Alcaraz’s Take on the Doping Ban
Becker also reacted to Carlos Alcaraz’s comments on Sinner’s suspension.
When asked if Sinner’s absence would make it easier to reclaim the World No. 1 spot, Alcaraz dismissed the idea, stating that his approach remains unchanged.
“The truth is there’s little to say. Whether he is there or not doesn’t influence us. We remain focused on our goals. The No. 1 ranking is always a goal, but his absence doesn’t change anything. We are working to improve and reach that top spot.”
In response, Becker again delivered a succinct message, writing:
“Well said, Carlos.”
Sinner’s Return Timeline
With his three-month ban, Jannik Sinner will be sidelined until May but remains eligible to compete at Roland Garros.
