Jannik Sinner’s doping case has been one of the main topics of discussion in recent months. The version of events provided by the Italian ace had convinced the independent court in the first instance, which is why he had been cleared of all charges shortly before the start of the 2024 US Open.
The world No.1 thought this nightmare was over, until WADA announced its intention to appeal the acquittal by charging Jannik with so-called ‘strict liability’.
Although WADA had ascertained the unintentionality of Sinner’s contamination, it still highlighted how the 3-time Grand Slam champion is also responsible for the actions of his team members.
For this reason, the hearing before the CAS in Lausanne was scheduled for mid-April (with WADA asking for a suspension of one to two years).
However – on the eve of the Doha ATP 500 – it was announced that Sinner and WADA had reached an agreement that provided for a three-month suspension for the world number 1.
The suspension began on February 9 and will end on May 4, just in time to allow the Italian to participate in the Rome Masters 1000 (in front of his home fans) and especially Roland Garros.
Mondenard has doubts
Although the authorities have ascertained that the 23-year-old from Sesto Pusteria did not intentionally use doping, there are still those who do not believe this version of events.
Among the most skeptical about it is Dr. Mondenard, who recently explained what does not convince him in this story.
“Taking it through the skin is definitely suitable for doping with anabolic steroids, because a large part of the substance remains in the adipose tissue for a certain time.
This technique is used precisely for the purpose of evading the anti-doping system.
In Sinner’s case, Clostebol was found in the urine test and was in small amounts, but that doesn’t mean that the dose detected was actually the one the player was taking,” Mondenard said.
According to the latest rumors, the Italian ace could practice with 2020 US Open champion Dominic Thiem in the coming weeks.
Tennis World USA