In August, the International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) announced its decision on the case of world number one Jannik Sinner.
After a detailed investigation, it was determined that the Italian player had accidentally encountered a banned substance. However, the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) plans to appeal this decision.
In March, Sinner tested positive for the prohibited substance clostebol twice during the ATP tournament in Indian Wells. This steroid, known for enhancing muscle growth, was found in low levels in his sample.
The ITIA eventually dropped the charges, stating that the positive result was due to an unusual accident. It was discovered that Sinner’s physiotherapist had used a spray containing clostebol to treat a cut on his finger, which inadvertently led to Sinner absorbing the substance.
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Despite this ruling, WADA was dissatisfied and has appealed to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), arguing that the ITIA’s conclusion of “no fault or negligence” was incorrect under current regulations.
WADA is seeking a suspension for Sinner ranging from one to two years, but they are not looking to annul any results, except those already determined by the initial tribunal.
As this case is under review by the CAS, WADA has refrained from further comments.
It’s important to note that, despite being cleared by the ITIA, Sinner was still penalized with a loss of 400 ranking points and a $250,000 fine.
He is currently competing in the ATP tournament in Beijing, where he has advanced to the round of 16.
