Juan Martin del Potro recently shared his thoughts on the controversial doping case involving Jannik Sinner. The Argentine tennis legend described the situation as “strange” and expressed concerns about how it was handled. Sinner, the world No. 1, tested positive for a banned substance in March last year. The International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) initially cleared him, attributing the presence of the substance to his physio. However, the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) contested this decision, seeking a one to two-year ban. Ultimately, a settlement was reached, resulting in a three-month suspension for Sinner.
Del Potro, speaking at the Rio Open, emphasized that the case raised many questions. He found it odd that Sinner tested positive twice in Indian Wells, yet the case was made public before the US Open without any immediate sanctions. Del Potro noted that this prolonged period of uncertainty and lack of communication damaged the credibility of the ATP, the anti-doping systems, and Sinner’s image.
The Argentine champion refrained from making any direct accusations but highlighted the overall negative impact on the sport. He pointed out that fans and stakeholders were left with doubts and suspicions, which did not benefit anyone involved. Del Potro’s comments reflect a broader sentiment within the tennis community, where transparency and fairness are paramount.
This is what Del Potro said:
“I don’t know so many details, I’m not on the circuit. But I can tell you that the whole situation seems strange to me. He tested positive twice in Indian Wells; before the US Open, the case was made public and he received no sanction.
I find that strange, that for many months there were people who knew and they didn’t communicate it.
I don’t understand why they announced it before the US Open if the case was closed. I’m not saying whether he was innocent or not, whether it was the physio, the cream. But I think that everyone here lost a bit of credibility.
The ATP, the anti-doping systems, Sinner’s image, the fans. I don’t think anyone came away with anything positive.”
As Sinner prepares to return to competition, the focus will be on how the sport addresses such cases in the future. The need for clear and consistent communication, as well as a fair process, is essential to maintain the integrity of tennis. Del Potro’s perspective serves as a reminder of the importance of credibility and trust in the world of sports.
Jannik Sinner in 2025
At the moment ranked no.1, Jannik played his last match on the 26th of January when he defeated world no.2 Alexander Zverev 6-3 7-6(4) 6-3 in the final of the Australian Open to win his 20th career title.
During this season the Italian owns a composed 7-0 match record. This year, the Italian conquered 1 title at the Australian Open.