Tennis Star Settles Case Over Accidental Contamination
World No. 1 Jannik Sinner will serve a three-month suspension after reaching a settlement with the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA), ending a nearly year-long dispute over traces of banned substance Clostebol detected in March 2023. The Italian, who maintained the contamination occurred through a trainer's medical treatment, avoids missing upcoming Grand Slam tournaments like the French Open starting May 25.
Avoiding the 'Long Shadow'
In a statement, the 23-year-old Australian Open champion said: \"This case had been hanging over me… I accept WADA's rules protect the sport I love.\" WADA initially sought a one-year ban but accepted the International Tennis Integrity Agency's conclusion of accidental exposure through a team member's cut finger treated with Clostebol.
Ranking Race Heats Up
Sinner will forfeit 1,600 ranking points during his ban, including titles from Miami and Monte Carlo. With Alexander Zverev trailing by 3,695 points, the German could claim the top spot with strong performances in coming tournaments. Sinner's lawyer emphasized \"no intent, knowledge, or competitive advantage\" in the case.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
