Jannik Sinner Rival Issues Chilling Warning as World No. 1 Returns from Drug Ban
Jannik Sinner is set to make his much-anticipated return to the tennis court at the Italian Open this week, following a three-month drug ban. The reigning world No. 1 has not played competitively since his victory at the Australian Open in January, where he claimed his third Grand Slam title.
Sinner was sidelined after testing positive for a banned substance on two occasions in March last year. Despite serving a suspension agreed with the World Anti-Doping Agency, the 22-year-old resumed training on April 13.
His recent training sessions in Monte Carlo with fellow Italian Lorenzo Sonego have raised expectations for his comeback. Sonego, currently ranked 44th in the world, offered a bold assessment: “He is coming back an even stronger champion. He has an insane hunger to compete and can’t wait to return to the court. Staying away from the game wasn’t easy for him, especially because the situation didn’t feel fair.”
Sonego described their high-intensity practices as “a real workout,” praising Sinner’s trademark powerful shot-making and competitive drive.
Sinner’s Norwegian hitting partner, Wimbledon junior champion Nicolai Budkov Kjaer, echoed the sentiment: “He’s still the same Sinner—relentless, focused, and a role model for younger players. The break hasn’t slowed him down; he still hits the ball with tremendous power.”
The bond between Sinner and Sonego runs deep. Nicknamed “Sinnego” during Italy’s Davis Cup triumphs in 2023 and 2024, the pair reunited after Sonego’s early exit in Madrid. “We didn’t talk much about the ban,” said Sonego. “We trained hard and had fun off the court. It felt great to be together again.”
As Sinner prepares to step back into the spotlight, fans and rivals alike will be watching closely to see if the world No. 1 can pick up where he left off.
