Tennis icon Novak Djokovic recently discussed concerns surrounding Jannik Sinner’s doping issue and subsequent suspension earlier this year. Sinner faced a three-month ban due to two positive drug tests in 2024.
Initially, Sinner avoided punishment as a tribunal determined that the failed tests for clostebol, an anabolic steroid, were due to contamination during a massage by his fitness coach. The International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) concluded that Sinner was not at fault for the positive results revealed in March 2024.
In response to criticisms, the ITIA defended its handling of Sinner’s case last year, denying any favoritism. In February, Sinner reached a resolution with the World Anti-Doping Agency after it contested the initial decision not to suspend him.
Following his suspension from February to May this year, Sinner, ranked world No. 2, strategically timed his return to participate in the French Open, which began in late May. Djokovic, who lost to Sinner in the semi-finals of both the French Open and Wimbledon in July, shared his views on the matter during a comprehensive discussion with Piers Morgan.
Expressing his shock over the situation, Djokovic praised Sinner’s dedication to the sport but criticized the handling of the case, citing lack of transparency, inconsistency, and the timing of the ban to avoid missing major tournaments.
Djokovic, known for his controversial stance on vaccination, emphasized his support for freedom of choice amid the Covid-19 pandemic. In contrast, Sky has announced a discounted Essential TV and Sky Sports bundle for the upcoming season, offering over 1,400 live matches across various leagues, including at least 215 live Premier League games.