August 21, (THEWILL) – World number one, Jannik Sinner, was cleared of wrongdoing despite failing two drug tests this year, sparking outrage from fellow tennis players who claim there are double standards in the sport.
As THEWILL reported, the International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) said on Tuesday that an independent tribunal had cleared Sinner to continue competing, with former top 10 player Denis Shapovalov among those quick to suggest the Italian received preferential treatment.
“Can’t imagine what every other player that got banned for contaminated substances is feeling right now,” the Canadian wrote on social media, adding: “Different rules for different players.”
Sinner, the Australian Open champion, tested positive for clostebol at Indian Wells in March, with low quantities of the banned substance found in his system again after another test days later. However, he successfully challenged automatic provisional suspensions.
The 23-year-old maintained his innocence, saying the substance entered his system after receiving massages from his physiotherapist, who had used a spray containing clostebol for his finger wound. The ITIA said it had consulted experts who concluded Sinner’s explanation was credible.
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
