One bad event is enough to tarnish years of hard work. Ask Jannik Sinner, who has been left in a similar spot with WADA appealing against the decision of the Tribunal that let him off without a ban after the failed dope tests. Before the US Open, it was revealed that Sinner failed a couple of dope tests at the Indian Wells Masters tournament. However, Sinner argued later that he came in contact with the banned substance Clostebol through a spray applied by his physio who then gave him a massage without gloves. The justification was considered valid and Sinner was let off. But after WADA’s appeal, Sinner might be in trouble again.

WADA is looking for a ban of 1-2 years on Sinner and has appealed for this case in the CAS. This could put a big stain on Jannik Sinner’s career, which has been picking up steam. The controversy couldn’t have come at a worse time, as Sinner is in the form of his career. As a result of this appeal by WADA, the Italian star isn’t in a great frame of mind. During an interview, he revealed, “It is not a situation I like to be in. I have spent sleepless nights trying to deal with this uncertainty. Even though the process was very complex, I remain focused on my job and giving my best in every match. It is a difficult time for me and my team, but I try to surround myself with people who know me well and support me. However, it is not easy, I assure you.”

Earlier, WADA claimed that the judgment made by the ITIA was ‘not correct under the applicable rules.’ As a result, it sent the case to the CAS and wanted Sinner to be banned for a year or two. However, WADA’s response hasn’t gone down well with several members of the tennis community. 18-time Grand Slam champion, Martina Navratilova, criticized WADA, saying, “This is nuts. WADA is a mess. The Chinese swimmers walk and now this? What a bad system we have.”

Despite pressure mounting on Jannik Sinner, the Italian star is a much-loved player on the tour. As a result, he has the support of fans and fellow players, including Carlos Alcaraz as well, who has backed him amid the tough times.

Carlos Alcaraz on the potential ban for Jannik Sinner: ‘Not a good sign for tennis’

After the ITIA dismissed the case, WADA took the matter into its own hands and proposed a stricter punishment of a 1 or 2-year ban on Sinner. If this becomes a reality, it would be a denting blow to Sinners’ best years on the tour. Carlos Alcaraz, despite being Sinner’s rival, has come forward to support him.

The Spaniard said, “I think for tennis it’s not really good, not really a good sign for tennis in general. I thought it was closed. This month I didn’t know what happened exactly. I just saw the news and it surprised me a little bit. Okay, what’s going on, that the case is open again? I don’t know how it’s going to be in the next few months. For sure, to tennis, not a good sign.”

WADA lodged an appeal with the CAS on September 26, but it remains to be seen when the final decision comes on Sinner’s doping controversy. If no decision is made by the CAS until January 2025, he will be cleared to play in the Australian Open under current rules. The Italian star is the defending champion there, having won the title earlier this year.

Do you agree with WADA’s decision to appeal and seek a 1 or 2-year ban for Jannik Sinner? Let us know your views in the comments below.