On The Athletic, magazine of the New York Times, Matthew Futterman and Charlie Eccleshare have written an editorial analyzing the possible consequences of Jannik Sinner’s Clostebol doping issue on the world of tennis.
A consequence that according to them could be important for men’s tennis, so much so that the two journalists have underlined how a possible two-year ban could have consequences for a decade on men’s tennis.
“The disqualification would be a hard blow for the ATP Tour. A two-year disqualification, on the other hand, could have consequences for a decade, not only for Jannik but for the entire Tour. Two years in tennis is an eternity. Imagining tennis without Sinner for two years: it’s like thinking that nothing has happened in the modern era,” they explained.
Also Novak Djokovic, at the Media Day of the Brisbane International, talked about Sinner and explained that he believes in his good faith. What the Serbian champion didn’t like was the way the affair was handled, especially from a communication point of view.
“I have known Jannik Sinner since he was very young, I think all the best of him and he certainly doesn’t seem like the type to do something against the rules. What was frustrating for me and for everyone else is the fact that nothing was known about his positive test for 5 months. Nick Kyrgios is right about the transparency and inconsistency of the protocols and the comparisons between the various cases,” explained Nole.
The appeal presented by WADA to the CAS in Lausanne will not be judged before March. WADA – following an acquittal by the independent ITIA tribunal – has requested a 1-2 year ban. The reasons explain how the young Italian is also held responsible for his team – contesting at the ATP No.1 a negligent behavior. Within three months the 2-time Slam winner will know his fate. Many insiders and lawyers believe the Italian could get a 2-3 months ban, others at least 6 months.
