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At the best moment of his young career, Jannik Sinner could have been sunk by the doping case that hit him in the spring of 2024. From one day to the next, the Italian ace found himself having to face a very strong and prolonged stress that required all his incredible mental strength.
The world No.1 who won eight titles last season and suffered only six defeats had to attend numerous hearings to prove his innocence to ITIA. The 23-year-old from Sesto Pusteria was convinced that this story was over when his innocence was proclaimed before the US Open, but the nightmare returned due to WADA's decision to appeal against the acquittal.
The trial before the CAS in Lausanne has been set for April 16 and 17, but it may take further time before the verdict is announced. The 3-time Grand Slam champion who has just lifted his second title in a row at the Australian Open could face a suspension of 1 to 2 years that would ruin his image.
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Sinner doesn'tseek fame
Everyone was impressed by Jannik's ability to continue playing at the highest level despite this nightmare.
In a long interview with 'La Nacion', former world number 7 Corrado Barazzutti expressed his opinion on this issue: "He has a really incredible mind. He continued to play his best tennis without this case affecting him. He could have taken a break while waiting for the verdict, instead he continued to dominate his opponents with a formidable game. No one knows what will happen before the CAS: some say nothing will happen to him, while others claim that he will receive a suspension."
The former Italian champion continued: "Sinner is number 1 in the world because he is mentally superior to all his opponents. His attitude is different from that of most athletes, he does not like to be the center of attention. He doesn't seek fame, he's the anti-star."
