This agreement between Jannik Sinner and WADA has sparked intense debate within the tennis community. Many players and insiders believe that the resolution of the doping case involving the world No. 1 was not handled appropriately.
After being fully acquitted by the International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) in the summer of 2024, Sinner faced renewed scrutiny when WADA appealed the decision and took the case to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) in Lausanne. Due to the logistical challenges of scheduling a hearing for a top-level player constantly traveling on tour, the proceedings were delayed, eventually set for April 16-17, coinciding with the ATP tournament in Munich.
Had the case gone to a full hearing, Sinner risked a suspension of one to two years—an outcome many considered excessive given the circumstances. As a result, he and WADA reached a compromise: a three-month suspension, allowing Sinner to return in time for the Rome Masters 1000 and Roland Garros in May.
A Controversial Agreement
While the deal provided a seemingly balanced resolution for both parties, it has drawn widespread criticism from public opinion and legal experts.
David Pavot, a professor at the University of Sherbrooke and an expert in international sports law, expressed his disapproval in an interview with Radio Canada.
“I really don’t understand why WADA didn’t pursue its appeal to the end, even if there was a risk of losing,” Pavot said. “When doping cases involve top athletes, there is a moral obligation to see them through. This agreement has created doubts about whether WADA has done its job properly.”
Many share Pavot’s concerns, believing the settlement raises unanswered questions and may set a precedent for leniency in similar cases.
For now, the world No. 1 is taking time to relax in the snow before resuming training for his comeback.
