Jannik Sinner makes something clear about rivals’ reactions after three-month ban ahead of Rome Open

The ATP Tour is buzzing with anticipation as Jannik Sinner, the world’s top-ranked player, prepares to make his comeback. After a three-month suspension following a doping agreement with the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA), Sinner is back just in time for the Rome Masters and Roland Garros. Despite his absence, neither Alexander Zverev nor Carlos Alcaraz capitalized in the rankings, allowing the Italian to retain the top spot.

Sinner’s suspension stemmed from a March 2024 doping test that revealed trace amounts of clostebol. While he successfully demonstrated that the substance did not enhance his performance, the results were only disclosed in August, following the Olympics.

The situation sparked a divide among players—some supported Sinner, while others criticized the ATP, ITF, and WADA for perceived inconsistencies in handling doping cases.

Originally scheduled for trial in April 2025, the matter was settled earlier when Sinner and WADA agreed on a three-month suspension. This resolution drew mixed reactions from the tennis world, with some arguing that similar cases had resulted in harsher penalties.

Jannik Sinner of Italy smiles during a training session on Day Two of the Internazionali BNL D’Italia 2025. (Dan Istitene/Getty Images)

Sinner reflects on teammates’ reactions

Speaking at a pre-tournament press conference, Sinner addressed his peers’ treatment of him during the suspension. “Tennis is an individual sport, and everyone plays for themselves. At the start of the suspension, I leaned on my team and friends,” Sinner said.

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“Some players sent messages that surprised me, and others didn’t reach out at all—but that’s normal. Everyone wants to win, and now I’m taking it step by step. I’ll meet them on the court,” he added.

Sinner also reflected on the agreement with WADA. “Personally, I’m very happy the suspension didn’t overlap with a Grand Slam,” he admitted. “At first, I didn’t want to settle, but it was all or nothing. It wasn’t easy to accept because I know what happened, but sometimes you have to take the best option in the worst moment. I’m just glad it’s over”.

Eyes set on Roland Garros

With three Grand Slam titles already under his belt, including the 2025 Australian Open against Zverev, Sinner is targeting his second Major of the year at Roland Garros.

“The main goal is Paris,” Sinner explained. “These weeks will help me assess my game. I’m not here to beat everyone; I’m here to test myself. Every match is tough, especially at the start of a new tournament. I need to take it one opponent at a time, but I feel calm and physically and mentally ready”.