In a recent press conference ahead of the Shanghai Masters, Novak Djokovic did not hold back his criticism of the current tennis anti-doping system. The Serbian tennis star expressed his concerns over the ongoing doping case involving Italian player Jannik Sinner, stating that the situation is detrimental to the sport.
Djokovic highlighted the inconsistencies and the involvement of multiple governing bodies as major issues within the system. He pointed out that even those who do not closely follow tennis can see that the system is flawed. According to Djokovic, the case has created unnecessary complications and is not helping the sport in any way.
Jannik Sinner, who tested positive for low levels of clostebol, a banned anabolic steroid, has been under scrutiny since March. Despite an independent tribunal ruling that Sinner was not at fault, the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) has appealed the decision, seeking a ban of up to two years. Djokovic praised Sinner for his resilience and high-level performance despite the ongoing investigation, noting that the young Italian has continued to win matches and even secured a Grand Slam title during this challenging period.
Djokovic called for a swift resolution to the case, emphasizing that prolonged uncertainty is harmful to tennis. He expressed hope that the matter would be settled soon, allowing everyone to focus on the sport itself rather than off-court controversies.
As Djokovic prepares for his quest for a fifth title at the Shanghai Masters, his comments have sparked discussions about the effectiveness and fairness of the current anti-doping regulations in tennis. The tennis community now waits to see how the situation will unfold and what changes, if any, will be made to improve the system.
Jannik Sinner in 2024
Ranked world no.1, Sinner played his last match on the 2nd of October when he lost to world no.2 Carlos Alcaraz 6-7(6) 6-4 7-6(3) in the final in Beijing (draw).
At present, during this year the Italian has managed to achieve a composed 59-6 win-loss record. The Italian conquered 6 titles in 2024 at the Australian Open, Rotterdam, Miami, Halle, Cincinnati and U.S. Open. Sinner was the finalist in Beijing.
Sinner is scheduled to compete next in Paris (Rolex Paris Masters). He will begin to play the tournament from the main draw that will commence on the 28th of October.
Novak Djokovic in 2024
Ranked no.4, the Serbian played his last match on the 14th of September when he overcame world no.773 Ioannis Xilas 6-0 6-1 in the Rubber 2 of the Davis Cup (draw).
Until now, during this year the Serbian has achieved an overall 32-8 match record. This year, Novak won 1 title in Paris. The Serbian was the runner-up in Wimbledon.
Djokovic will play next in Paris (Rolex Paris Masters). He will start from the main draw that will commence on the 28th of October.
Jannik Sinner and Novak Djokovic squared off 7 times. Their record is 4-3 for Djokovic.