Carlos Alcaraz offers a timid response as the Spaniard is questioned about Jannik Sinner’s suspension
Carlos Alcaraz Reacts to Jannik Sinner’s Three-Month Suspension
Carlos Alcaraz has addressed Jannik Sinner’s three-month suspension from tennis but remained reserved when asked whether he sees it as an opportunity to reclaim the world No. 1 ranking. Sinner’s ban, which runs from February 9 to May 4, was the result of an agreement with the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) after he tested positive for the anabolic steroid clostebol in March 2024.
An independent tribunal initially cleared the Italian in August, ruling he was not at fault for the violation. Sinner went on to start the 2025 season in dominant fashion, clinching his third Grand Slam title by successfully defending the Australian Open. He is expected to return in time to chase his first French Open crown this summer.
Mixed Reactions to Sinner’s Ban
Sinner’s relatively short suspension has sparked debate within the tennis world. Nick Kyrgios has been among the most vocal critics, continuing his history of outspoken views on the sport’s disciplinary rulings. Former British No. 1 Tim Henman also expressed dissatisfaction, calling the decision a “sour” moment for tennis.
Ahead of his opening match at the Qatar Open, Alcaraz was inevitably asked about Sinner’s absence but offered little insight into how it might impact the tour.
“The truth is, there’s not much to say. Whether he is there or not doesn’t influence us. We remain focused on ourselves and our goals,” Alcaraz stated.
When pressed on whether Sinner’s suspension provides an opportunity to reclaim the No. 1 ranking, the Spaniard remained diplomatic.
“The No. 1 spot is always a goal, but as I said, his absence doesn’t change anything for us. We are focused on improving and working toward that top spot,” he added.
WADA’s Appeal and Sinner’s Explanation
WADA had initially sought a suspension of up to two years and appealed the tribunal’s decision to clear Sinner, bringing the case before the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).
Sinner argued that he unknowingly ingested the banned substance through a massage from his physiotherapist, who had used a spray containing clostebol to treat a cut on his finger. Following the controversy, the 23-year-old parted ways with both his physio, Giacomo Naldi, and his trainer, Umberto Ferrara, who was reportedly responsible for providing the spray.
As a result of the ban, Sinner will miss four ATP Masters 1000 tournaments: Indian Wells and Miami in March, followed by Monte-Carlo and Madrid in April. His return is set for the Rome Masters on May 7—his home event—before he heads to Roland Garros in pursuit of his fourth Grand Slam title.
