INTERNEWSTIMES.COM – A cloud of uncertainty has descended over Jannik Sinner’s career after the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) appealed a decision that cleared him of wrongdoing following two positive drug tests. The appeal, announced on Saturday, could see the U.S. Open champion facing a one-to-two-year ban.
Despite the appeal, WADA has indicated that it will not seek to backdate any potential suspension. This means that even if found guilty, Sinner would retain his second Grand Slam title.
The appeal, which will be heard by the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) in Switzerland, adds a new layer of complexity to Sinner’s preparations for defending his Australian Open title in January. The case may not be resolved before the tournament begins, but Sinner is allowed to continue playing while the appeal is pending.
The news came as a shock to Sinner, who expressed both disappointment and surprise following his victory over Roman Safiullin at the China Open in Beijing. “I’m really disappointed and surprised by this appeal, to be honest,” Sinner said. “We had three hearings, and all three came out positively for me. I wasn’t expecting this at all. I knew they were going to appeal a few days ago, and it became official today. It’s a surprise. Maybe they just want to make sure everything is in the right place.”
The unexpected appeal throws a wrench into Sinner’s future plans and raises questions about the fate of his Grand Slam title. The outcome of the CAS hearing will be closely watched by the tennis world and beyond. (Red)
