Jannik Sinner is no longer in contention for the Laureus World Sportsman of the Year Award and Nick Kyrgios didn't miss out on the chance to throw some shade on the world No. 1.
Last year, the Italian enjoyed an outstanding season, winning his first two Grand Slams - reaching the world No. 1 ranking in June and being there since - as well as winning his maiden ATP Finals title.
As a result, Sinner was named the 2024 ATP Player of the Year and he was also nominated for the prestigious Laureus award.
But after the 23-year-old settled on a three-month doping suspension with the WADA, the Laureus officials decided to withdraw his name from the candidates list.
Following discussions by the Laureus Academy it has been decided that Jannik Sinners Nomination for this years Laureus World Sportsman of the Year Award is to be withdrawn," the organization's Chairman Sean Fitzpatrick said in a statement.
"We have followed this case, the decisions of the relevant global bodies and - whilst we note the extenuating circumstances involved - feel that the three-month ban renders the nomination ineligible.
"Jannik and his team have been informed.
Kyrgios: It means playing by the rules
The Australian's view and position on Sinner's doping case is well-documented so there is no need to say anything about that anymore.
"Well I mean sportsmanship does mean playing by the rules," Kyrgios wrote in his response to the announcement.
Meanwhile, the three-time Grand Slam champion will be sidelined until May 4th and he will be able to return to action at the Rome Masters, which starts on May 7th.
Also, most importantly for the current world No. 1, he won't miss any Grand Slams because of his suspension since the next Major - the French Open - kicks off on May 25th.
