Jannik Sinner, the World No. 1, is under immense pressure as the ATP Finals approach. Despite hitting the practice courts early, he faces not only the challenge of maintaining his top ranking but also the shadow of a doping controversy stemming from the banned substance Clostebol. The situation began in March 2024 after his physiotherapist used a spray containing the substance to heal a wound on his finger, however the situation has since escalated. With WADA now pursuing an appeal with CAS, Sinner is left uncertain about his future. How has his team managed to deal with this? Head on! If Sinner’s coach, Darren Cahill’s words are anything to go by!

On November 8, Cahill spoke to Corriere Della Sera, reflecting on Sinner’s tumultuous season. He described receiving the email about Sinner’s positive test as a “shock.” As his previous physiotherapist and fitness trainers didn’t see this coming either, “Umberto Ferrara and Giacomo Naldi have long been two excellent members of the team: their mistake was a bolt from the blue,” he said. The team believed they were doing everything right until that moment.

Even after the ITIA cleared Sinner in August, WADA’s appeal has put him back under scrutiny in October ahead of the Asian Swing. It puts the player under pressure of potentially facing a ban of one to two years. “We know that disqualification is a possibility, but there is nothing we can do to change this situation,” Cahill added. However, he believes that Sinner will confront whatever comes with maturity. “And we will do everything to protect it. Tennis is his safe place, his bubble: he has fun on the court, he feels that nothing bad can happen to him,” further added Cahill.

Since the incident, Sinner has clinched multiple titles, including the Shanghai Masters against Novak Djokovic, showcasing his focus on the court. In a stunning upset, Jannik Sinner overcame fatigue and defeated tennis legend Novak Djokovic 6-2, 6-7 (0), 6-4 to advance to the final of the inaugural Six Kings Slam in Riyadh. Following the controversy, Jannik Sinner made significant changes to his team.

He brought in Marco Panichi as his fitness coach and Ulises Badio as his physiotherapist. Cahill noted they felt like they were “on a ship heading towards an iceberg” and needed to navigate carefully. He claimed that Sinner’s former teammate’s actions were “completely unusual compared to the professionalism demonstrated up to that point.” But ultimately, they have no hard feelings towards these members.

But with the appeal came critics’ voice claiming that he was receiving preferential treatment. Players like Nick Krygios stepped forward on social media to state that any player who tests positive deserves a ban, regardless. However, the ITIA CEO Karen Moorhouse rose to clear these allegations.

In her statement, she mentioned that, “The way we manage cases does not change, irrespective of the profile of the player involved. The way a case unfolds is determined by its unique circumstances, facts and science,” to clear up the notion that the officials were taking this case lightly.

Now, as Jannik Sinner heads into the ATP Finals, he faces significant challenges. This high-stakes tournament brings pressure and expectations. How does he manage to step on the court with this weight on his shoulders?

Sinner reveals his strategy for dealing with the backlash of the doping controversy

Jannik Sinner has had a remarkable 2024 season, claiming Grand Slam titles at both the Australian Open and the US Open. However, the doping controversy still hangs in the air, not to mention that health issues that have prevented him from taking part in tournaments. At the Lavazza 2025 presentation, he reflected on his journey, emphasizing the importance of balancing mental and physical health amidst a grueling tour schedule. “No, I understand you…” he said, highlighting that there’s always more beneath the surface.

Sinner’s dedication is evident as he stated, “We are not machines. We are people who only seek the best we can do on any given day. I invest a lot.” Despite missing the Italian Open due to a hip injury earlier this year, he is set to play in Italy for the first time at the ATP Finals. This return is significant for Sinner, who has been working hard to improve his game and health. “To do this, I need people around me who help me feel good,” he added, showcasing his commitment to surrounding himself with a supportive team.

The ongoing doping controversy continues to loom large over Sinner’s career. Will Sinner overcome the pressure at Turin for the ATP Finals? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!