WADA’s appeal on Jannik Sinner Doping Case Delayed Until End of Australian Open
Just when you thought coming into December we wouldn’t be hearing a lot from the tennis world, out of nowhere, the controversies erupted once again. First, it surrounded World No.2 Iga Swiatek and her suspension due to a failed doping test. Now, fast forward 24 hours, the news surrounding Jannik Sinner‘s doping verdict has also come to the surface.
The Italian tested positive twice for a banned substance in Indian Wells, and the news was leaked to the press only a few hours after his August Cincinnati Open title win. However, WADA initially reassured that the World No.1 wouldn’t be suspended. Instead, the Italian’s ranking points from Indian Wells and prize money earned in California were taken away from him.
In an interesting turn of events, WADA issued a full statement in October, saying they are committed to handing the Italian a ban of at least 12 months. With Swiatek’s official suspension, the spotlight could now be falling onto Sinner.
Now, CAS is reporting that the schedule for WADA’s verdict has been reached. The hearing will be done after the Australian Open, which means that Sinner will be able to defend his crown in Melbourne. However, the hearing will be held in February or March. It remains to be seen if the Italian is eligible to play in Rotterdam, where he is also the defending champion.
Sinner has had one of the greatest seasons in men’s history in 2024. The Italian won two Grand Slams, three Masters 1000, and ATP Finals, and retained the Davis Cup for Italy. He has held the World No.1 ranking since June after Novak Djokovic withdrew from his Roland Garros quarterfinals due to an injury. However, it can be said that his biggest opponent in 2024 seems to be outside the court.
Many people are expecting Sinner to be handed a ban. However, considering Switaek got banned for just a month despite having a similar case, the tennis world is expecting some sort of leniency for the 23-year-old.