“It is inconsistent and seems very unfair to me”: Novak Djokovic speaks on Jannik Sinner’s three-month suspension

Novak Djokovic Speaks Out on Jannik Sinner’s Suspension Controversy

Novak Djokovic has weighed in on the ATP Tour’s biggest controversy of the week—Jannik Sinner’s three-month suspension. The 24-time Grand Slam champion acknowledged growing concerns within the locker room, as many players believe that high-profile stars, like the current world No. 1, are being treated favorably.

Djokovic, a key figure in player rights advocacy as the founder of the Professional Tennis Players Association (PTPA) and a member of the Executive Committee, did not hold back in his criticism.

“It’s clear the structure doesn’t work like this”

Speaking at the Qatar Open, Djokovic addressed the media for the first time since his injury-related withdrawal from the Australian Open. When asked about Sinner’s case, he was direct:

“I spoke with several players in the locker room, not only in the last few days but also in the previous months. Most of them are not satisfied with how the whole process has gone, and they don’t think it’s fair. Many of them believe there was favoritism.”

Djokovic expressed concerns that the outcome of doping cases could be influenced by a player’s status and legal resources:

“It almost seems like you can influence the result if you are a top player and have access to top lawyers and so on.”

However, the Serbian also defended Sinner and WTA world No. 1 Iga Świątek, who was recently cleared in a separate case:

“Sinner and Świątek are innocent, it has been proven.”

Djokovic Questions Fairness in Anti-Doping Rulings

Djokovic emphasized that similar cases involving lesser-known players were handled much differently.

“We have seen cases like Simona Halep and Tara Moore, and other lesser-known players who struggled for years to resolve their situations or faced long suspensions. I think it’s really time to address the system because it’s clear the structure doesn’t work like this.”

Djokovic concluded with a strong call for fairness in the sport:

“So yes, it is inconsistent and seems very unfair to me, and that is all I have to say about it. We will see what happens in the near future, whether this case will draw more attention and shed light on other cases involving lower-ranked players.”

Djokovic Prepares for Qatar Open Clash With Berrettini

Amid the controversy, Djokovic is now shifting his focus to competition as he gears up for his Qatar Open debut on Tuesday against Italy’s Matteo Berrettini, a former world No. 6. The two have faced off four times before, with Djokovic winning every encounter.

This will be Djokovic’s first match since his injury withdrawal at the Australian Open, where he was forced to pull out during his semi-final against Alexander Zverev due to a hamstring injury.