Men’s world number one Jannik Sinner (23) has been declared free of any fault or negligence by an independent tribunal following two failed drug tests in March, as stated by the International Tennis Integrity Authority (ITIA) on Tuesday.
According to the ITIA, the tribunal accepted Sinner’s explanation that the anabolic agent clostebol entered his system through massages and sports therapy provided by a member of his support team.
The ITIA further explained that the team member had been using an over-the-counter spray containing clostebol on their own skin to treat a minor injury.
The statement clarified that a provisional suspension was imposed after each positive test, but Sinner successfully appealed against these suspensions, allowing him to continue playing.
The decision can be appealed by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) and the Italian Anti-Doping Agency (NADO Italia), according to the statement.
After fully cooperating in the ITIA’s investigation, Sinner, who recently won the Cincinnati Open, stated that he had been cleared by an independent tribunal back in April.
In his statement, Sinner expressed his determination to leave this challenging and unfortunate period behind him. Additionally, he mentioned that the amount of clostebol detected in his system was minuscule, less than one billionth of a gram.
He also emphasized his commitment to continuing compliance with the ITIA’s anti-doping program, and praised the meticulousness of his team in adhering to the rules.
The ATP expressed their satisfaction with the ruling, acknowledging the difficulties faced by Jannik and his team. They highlighted the importance of players and their entourages being cautious in their use of products or treatments, emphasizing the paramountcy of integrity in the sport.
Despite the recent controversy, Sinner will be participating in the upcoming US Open, which commences on August 26th. As the reigning Australian Open champion, he is eager to compete on the grand stage once again.
