“These athletes are being harassed and traumatized” – Fans back Aryna Sabalenka’s comments after ‘absurd’ Jannik Sinner-WADA verdict
Fans have rallied behind Aryna Sabalenka after she discussed how players can become too “scared of the system” in light of Jannik Sinner’s three-month suspension. The World No. 1 was handed the ban after the International Tennis Integrity Agency initially cleared him, only for WADA to appeal and push for a two-year suspension. The case was ultimately settled with Sinner accepting a three-month ban that will last until May 4, 2025.
The announcement sent shockwaves through the tennis community on February 15 when it was revealed that Sinner had tested positive for a banned substance in March 2024, but was initially cleared of fault when the failed tests became public in August. The Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) was set to hear the appeal in April 2025, but the issue was settled, allowing Sinner to miss only a portion of the tour.
When Sabalenka was asked about the situation during her press conference at the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships, she opened up about the challenges players face in trusting the system. She said, “You just become a bit too much aware of stuff and these things get to your head… If someone used a cream on you and you test positive, they’re not going to believe you or anything. You just become too scared of the system. I don’t see how I can trust the system.”
Her comments resonated with many fans, who expressed support for her stance on the issue.
“Absolutely right! It must be terrifying for them,” one fan wrote. Another added, “Exactly, sh*t can happen to anyone, and I believe that’s what happened with Sinner. But people, especially on Twitter, believe what fits their narrative and not what makes sense. It’s awful how ruthless people can be when a player they don’t like faces trouble.”
A third fan echoed this sentiment, noting, “These athletes are being harassed and traumatized. The real cheaters should be the ones who face consequences. Based on the small amount of contamination in Sinner’s case, it’s clear he wasn’t cheating.”
Several other fans also expressed frustration with the system. “It’s absurd that WADA says ‘you can get contaminated by doing the most trivial and common things,’ yet only plans to change the rules in 2027,” one fan said. Another remarked, “Players are under more pressure than ever now. It’s unfortunate that this can happen to anyone. The system needs to improve and be clearer.”
One fan added, “Thanks Aryna. This system is ridiculous. It’s mind-blowing that fellow players are cheering for an unfair career downfall.”
Another wrote, “Can you imagine going to a restaurant or drinking water in the clubhouse, knowing anyone could taint it to ruin you? It’s terrifying.”
As for Jannik Sinner, the timing of his ban has been questioned, with many pointing out that the suspension is short enough to allow him to avoid missing any Grand Slam tournaments. However, he will miss 12 ATP Tour events, including four Masters 1000 tournaments: the Miami Open, Indian Wells, Monte Carlo Masters, and Madrid Open.
Sinner has only played one tournament this season — the Australian Open, where he successfully defended his title. He was forced to withdraw from the Qatar Open due to the suspension. However, he will be back in time for the Italian Open, his home Masters 1000 event. During this period, he will lose 2,100 ranking points.
