World number one Jannik Sinner is set to make his return at the Italian Open in May.
Sinner revealed he contemplated leaving tennis amid his doping investigation, stating he “didn’t feel comfortable” as he sensed his peers viewed him “differently” during the Australian Open.
The 23-year-old Italian twice tested positive in March 2024 for the prohibited substance clostebol and accepted a three-month suspension from the World Anti-Doping Agency in February, shortly after defending his Australian Open title.
“Before the Australian Open this year, I wasn’t particularly happy as the doping issue still lingered,” Sinner told Italian broadcaster RAI.
“I didn’t really feel at ease in the locker room or even when I was eating. Some players seemed to perceive me differently and I struggled with that.
“The whole atmosphere in tennis became overwhelming. I had always been someone to joke and converse openly in the dressing room, but things changed. I didn’t feel comfortable.
“I thought after Australia, a short break away from tennis—some free time—might be what I needed,” he added.
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Although an independent panel had previously cleared Sinner of wrongdoing, Wada appealed to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (Cas), seeking a suspension of up to two years.
Ultimately, Sinner and the anti-doping agency reached a settlement for a reduced ban, with the Italian scheduled to compete again at the Italian Open (6-18 May) in Rome following the conclusion of his suspension on 5 May.
Wada acknowledged that Sinner did not gain a competitive edge from the banned substance and bore no responsibility for the accidental contamination.
The ban faced criticism from certain quarters, including 23-time Grand Slam singles champion Serena Williams, who commented that she would have received “a 20-year ban and had her titles taken away” had she been in a similar situation.
Former British number one Tim Henman described the agreement as “too convenient,” while three-time Swiss Grand Slam winner Stan Wawrinka voiced skepticism about clean sport in the wake of the case.
Sinner, however, maintained his stance, saying: “I don’t wish to respond to criticism. People are entitled to their opinions and judgments.
“What is important for me is knowing what I have endured. It was a difficult experience—one I would not wish upon anyone who is innocent.”
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