Jannik Sinner considers quitting tennis amid doping controversy

World No. 1 Jannik Sinner has revealed that he considered quitting tennis during the fallout from his doping case, which led to a three-month suspension after testing positive for the banned substance clostebol in March 2024. Although initially cleared of any wrongdoing by the Tennis Integrity Agency, which accepted his claim of accidental contamination via a physio's cream, the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) appealed and secured a settlement resulting in Sinner's ban. Sinner described feeling isolated and uncomfortable around other players during the Australian Open and struggled with the emotional toll, but ultimately chose to accept the suspension after legal advice about potential worse outcomes. The ban allowed him to return in time for the Italian Open and the upcoming French Open, sparking controversy and criticism from some who felt he received preferential treatment. Sinner maintains his innocence and is now ready to move forward, crediting his support network for helping him through the ordeal. Despite the stress, he remains at the top of the rankings and is set to make his comeback at his home tournament in Rome.