Jannik Sinner’s doping case has definitely been a hot topic in the tennis world. It all started with a simple question: should he be banned or not? While the ITIA initially cleared the World No. 1, WADA wasn’t so sure and decided to appeal, leaving Sinner’s future uncertain. Then, out of the blue, on February 15th, a settlement was reached, and Sinner received a three-month suspension. But here’s the kicker: the ban lifts just before any major tournaments, allowing him to return for the Italian Open and get ready for Roland Garros. This convenient timing hasn’t escaped the notice of players like Daniil Medvedev, Stan Wawrinka, and Nick Kyrgios. Italian Tennis Federation president Angelo Binaghi, however, views this as a lucky break for Sinner’s rivals.

The suspension runs from February 9 to May 4. The reason being trace amounts of clostebol—a banned substance—that entered his system through a spray used by his physiotherapist to treat a cut. WADA admitted that Sinner “had no intent and gained no competitive advantage”. Still, the punishment means that the World No.1 will miss the Sunshine Double—Indian Wells and Miami—two of the biggest hard-court tournaments of the season, Monte Carlo Masters, and Madrid Open. But he can start practicing from April 13 and make his official return at the Italian Open on May 7.

When the Italian publication, Napolista‘s interviewer reminded Binaghi of “Three months seems like a good compromise between one and the six proposed by Wada”, he responded, “Three months of stoppage are compatible with a serene management of the season. Nothing traumatic or prejudicial to the future happens, that is. 2025 will also be a special year. Patience: it is the right handicap that the strongest of all gives to the rest of the world. Jannik gives three Masters 1000 to his rivals.”

The three-month suspension comes at a price—Sinner is set to lose 1600 ATP points. Sinner will lose 1,000 ranking points from his Miami Open win, 400 from Monte Carlo, and 200 from Madrid. He also hasn’t yet accounted for the 500 points lost from skipping Rotterdam (unrelated to the doping case).

Currently holding 11,830 points, a significant lead over Zverev (8,135) and Alcaraz (7,510), Sinner’s total will drop to 9,730. This opens the door for Zverev and Alcaraz to close the gap. Zverev needs to gain just under 2,500 points (defending only 900), while Alcaraz, defending 1,000 at Indian Wells, likely needs another win there and strong performances elsewhere to stay close.

So what does the Spaniard have to say about his arch rival’s doping ban?

Carlos Alcaraz reacts to Jannik Sinner’s suspension

While all eyes are on Jannik Sinner’s absence, Carlos Alcaraz is focused on his own journey. His 2025 season has already been a rollercoaster.

He kicked things off, aiming to become the youngest player to complete a Career Grand Slam. But that dream was shut down by Novak Djokovic in the Australian Open quarter-finals. Still, he bounced back. Alcaraz won his first indoor hard-court title shortly after, beating Alex de Minaur 6-4, 3-6, 6-2 in the final. Now, riding a five-match winning streak, he’s set to compete at the Qatar Open in Doha.

Before his campaign, Alcaraz spoke to Sport.es, where he was asked about Sinner’s three-month absence. The World No.3 said, “The truth is that there is little to say. Whether it (Sinner) is there or not does not influence us. We remain focused on what is ours and our objectives.”

When asked if this is his chance to claim the No. 1 spot, he said, “Number one is always a goal. As I say, not being there doesn’t change anything for us. We try to improve in our field and focus on continuing to work to reach number one.” 

Sinner’s ban has set the stage for a ranking shake-up, and his rivals will look to capitalize. Will Zverev or Alcaraz take advantage, or will Jannik Sinner return stronger than ever?