Jannik Sinner Opens Up: “I Was Very Fragile” After Doping Ban
World No. 1 Jannik Sinner has broken his silence following a three-month doping suspension, opening up about the emotional toll it took on him. In his first interview since the ban, Sinner told Sky Italy he felt “very fragile” during the early days of the fallout.
The 23-year-old was suspended on February 15 after testing positive for clostebol, a banned anabolic steroid. His suspension is set to end on May 4, just ahead of the French Open.
The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) had appealed an earlier clearance by an independent panel, arguing that Sinner should be held accountable for the actions of his team—even though he claimed the banned substance entered his system accidentally.
Sinner maintains his innocence, stating that his former physio had used a cream containing clostebol on his own hand before giving Sinner a massage.
“I was very fragile after what happened,” Sinner admitted. “There were unexpected emotional reactions. But in life, you learn. Year by year, I’m getting to know myself better. It was incredibly difficult, but the people close to me gave me strength.”
Despite disagreeing with the ruling, Sinner opted not to prolong the legal process, instead accepting a lesser penalty to avoid the risk of a longer suspension.
“I didn’t fully agree with the decision, but I chose what I felt was the lesser evil. The alternative could have been even more unjust. It still took me time to rediscover myself afterward.”
He revealed that off-court struggles compounded the stress of the situation but expressed optimism about his return to competition.
“I’m looking forward to returning in Rome, though I know all eyes will be on me. It won’t be easy.”
Sinner emphasized that the experience offered a harsh but valuable life lesson.
“I’ve learned more than ever that tennis isn’t everything. Family comes first, friends are essential, and above all, it’s important to be surrounded by people you can trust.”
Despite the ban, Sinner is expected to retain his No. 1 ATP ranking upon his return and will make his comeback at the Italian Open, just ahead of Roland Garros.
