Jannik Sinner is encountering potential sanctions following positive drug screening results
Initially, the manner in which Clostebol entered Sinner's system is clarified. The world's number one tennis player has been cleared following two doping tests. However, this clearing hasn't brought him all good news. His faith in his team has taken a hit, leading him to take some tough decisions.
Jannik Sinner has made some personnel changes amidst the chaos following his exoneration following two failed doping tests before the US Open. At a press conference, the world number one confirmed that he had parted ways with his athletic trainer, Umberto Ferrara, and physiotherapist, Giacomo Naldi.
"The mistakes have led to a loss of trust in continuing with them," the 23-year-old explained. "I've had quite a struggle these past few months. Now that the result is out, I just need some fresh air." German tennis icon Boris Becker commended the move, noting it as "a good decision," according to Italian sports media reports.
Following two positive tests in March for the prohibited anabolic steroid Clostebol and a provisional suspension, Sinner was cleared by an independent court, as per itia, the responsible tennis body. The Italian Open champion's argument that the banned substance inadvertently entered his system via a massage was deemed persuasive.
Physiotherapist's finger injury
According to the report, Naldi had injured his finger and treated it using Trofodermin spray, containing Clostebol. This was provided to him by Ferrara. Sinner praised both for their two-year collaboration. "It's been a challenging time for me and my team," he stated. "It still is."
The handling of the official bodies in Sinner's case is a hot topic at the last Grand Slam tournament of the year. Alexander Zverev rules out any strain on his relationship with one of his main rivals. "I don't have an opinion on it because I don't have enough information," the 2021 Olympics tennis player remarked in New York concerning the case. "Jannik is a great guy that I know off the court. I've always had a good relationship with him, and that won't change."
Zverev: "A bit odd"
Itia announced the verdict and positive tests only on Tuesday. That everything unfolded within 24 hours is "the only thing that's a bit odd," Zverev stated. The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) plans to "carefully review" the decision and holds the right to appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport in Lausanne, should the need arise.
Sinner begins as the top-seeded player at the US Open, starting on Monday. Recently, the 23-year-old emerged victorious in the Masters-1000 tournament and defeated Zverev in the semifinals on his way to the title.
The physiotherapist's use of Trofodermin spray containing Clostebol, which inadvertently led to Sinner's doping violation, has shaken his trust in his team. The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) has expressed its intent to review the decision and potentially appeal if necessary.
