Novak Djokovic has spoken candidly about Jannik Sinner’s doping case, expressing both empathy and concern over how the situation was handled. His remarks came during an interview with Piers Morgan, where he reflected on the controversy and its broader implications for tennis.
Djokovic Questions the Handling of Sinner’s Case
During the interview, Novak Djokovic addressed the clostebol case involving Jannik Sinner, who tested positive for the banned substance at Indian Wells in 2024. While Sinner claimed the substance entered his system through a healing spray used by his physiotherapist, the incident sparked widespread debate.
“When this happened I was shocked honestly. I do think that he didn’t do it on purpose. But the way the whole case was handled is so many red flags,” Djokovic said. He pointed to inconsistencies in the process and questioned the timing of the provisional three-month ban, which conveniently fell between Grand Slam tournaments.
Concerns Over Fairness and Transparency
Piers Morgan suggested that a lower-ranked player might have faced harsher consequences. “If he’d been #500 in the world, I think he would’ve been banned,” Morgan said. Djokovic agreed, highlighting what he sees as unequal treatment.
“That’s exactly… the lack of transparency. The inconsistency. The convenience of the ban coming between the Slams so he doesn’t miss out… it was very odd,” Djokovic added. He referenced other players who have faced longer bans for similar infractions, suggesting that Sinner’s status may have influenced the outcome.
Responsibility and Empathy
Despite his criticism of the process, Djokovic made it clear that he does not believe Sinner acted with intent. “I want to believe him. Knowing my history with him, I think he didn’t do it on purpose, but, of course he is responsible. Because those are the rules,” he said. Djokovic emphasized that athletes are held accountable for what enters their bodies, regardless of intent.
He also expressed support for how Sinner has managed the public scrutiny. “It’s not easy for him. I do have a sense of empathy and compassion for him. I think he’s handled the storm in the media very maturely and steadily. Kudos to him for that,”
Djokovic said. He praised Sinner’s continued success on the court, noting his ability to win Grand Slams despite the controversy.A Broader Reflection on Integrity in Tennis
Djokovic’s comments reflect a deeper concern about fairness and consistency in how doping cases are handled in professional tennis. His remarks suggest a call for greater transparency and equal treatment, regardless of a player’s ranking or reputation.
Jannik Sinner in 2025
At the moment ranked no.2, Sinner played his last match on the 10th of November when he defeated world no.8 Felix Auger-Aliassime 7-5 6-1 in the round robin in the Nitto ATP Finals (draw).
Presently, during this year Jannik has a compiled 54-6 record. Jannik conquered 5 titles in 2025 at the Australian Open, Wimbledon, Beijing, Vienna and Paris. Sinner was the finalist in Rome, French Open, Cincinnati and U.S. Open.
Novak Djokovic in 2025
Currently ranked no.4, the Serbian played his last match on the 8th of November when he beat world no.9 Lorenzo Musetti 4-6 6-3 7-5 in the final in Athens to win his 101st career title.
During this season Djokovic has a 39-11 win-loss record. Djokovic clinched 2 titles in 2025 in Geneva and Athens. Djokovic reached the final in Miami.
Jannik Sinner and Novak Djokovic squared off 10 times. Their record is 6-4 for Sinner.