Tennis icon Novak Djokovic has demanded urgent changes to the sport\u0027s anti-doping protocols, calling out \"inconsistencies\" in high-profile cases involving stars like Jannik Sinner and Iga Swiatek compared to penalties for lower-ranked players.
Top Players Under Scrutiny
World No. 1 Jannik Sinner avoided a potential two-year ban last week by accepting a three-month suspension for clostebol traces linked to his team\u0027s oversight. This followed WADA\u0027s surprise withdrawal of its appeal against his initial clearance by the ITIA. Similarly, five-time Grand Slam champion Iga Swiatek received a one-month ban in 2023 for trimetazidine use.
A System Under Fire
Djokovic stated that \"a majority of players\" feel the process favors top athletes with access to elite legal resources. \"It appears you can almost affect the outcome if you\u0027re a top player,\" he told media, emphasizing concerns about fairness and transparency.
Global Player Backlash
The controversy highlights growing discontent in locker rooms worldwide, with players reportedly questioning whether prestige and financial clout influence disciplinary decisions. Analysts warn the dispute could reshape tennis governance ahead of Grand Slam season.
Reference(s):
Djokovic calls for overhaul of 'unfair' anti-doping system in tennis
cgtn.com
