World number one Jannik Sinner admitted on Friday that his ongoing doping case has put him in an “uncomfortable” situation, but he remains focused as he prepares for his first match at the Shanghai Masters. Last week, the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) announced its decision to appeal the ruling that cleared the 23-year-old Italian after he tested positive for a steroid twice in March.
Despite the controversy, Sinner recently reached the finals of the China Open in Beijing, where he lost to rival Carlos Alcaraz. Speaking at a press conference, Sinner said, “It’s not easy… I thought it was over, so it’s not in a situation where I feel comfortable.” However, he expressed confidence in a positive outcome as the case continues.
The International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) had previously accepted Sinner’s explanation that the steroid entered his system unintentionally through a spray used by his physiotherapist to treat a cut. WADA is seeking a ban of up to two years.
As Sinner turns his attention to the Shanghai Masters, he will face Japan’s 93rd-ranked Taro Daniel in his first match. Despite the distractions, Sinner said he feels “good and recovered” following his first practice session in Shanghai.
