Over the past 12 months, Jannik Sinner has seen a massive uptick in his fortunes. It all started after he won the 2024 Australian Open title, defeating Daniil Medvedev in the summit clash. 12 months later, Sinner continues to hold the Australian Open trophy as he defeated Alexander Zverev today to defend his title Down Under. It was a gritty performance from the Italian star, as he gave nothing away to Zverev. However, American tennis legend, John McEnroe revealed the actual reason behind Sinner’s massive win today.

After the match, McEnroe, who was the commentator for Eurosport, congratulated Sinner for his victory and talked about his strengths. Subsequently, he also highlighted what went right for Sinner today, which put Zverev on the backfoot.

McEnroe revealed, “He’s an awesome player there’s no question about it the way he gets in and out of the corners is unbelievable he puts tons of pressure on opponents that’s clear and he did get in Zverev’s head, I’m not denying that but I thought Zverev was going to make this a war of attrition.”

Although Zverev served well throughout the match, it was Sinner who continued to pile the pressure on his opponents in long rallies. Additionally, Sinner’s return game was also on point today as he won the match in straight sets 6-3, 7-6 (4), 6-3. After the match, Zverev also accepted how Sinner completely outplayed him despite him giving his best and serving well all through the match.

While McEnroe was all praise for Sinner, he also highlighted a major worrying fact for the Italian star in the coming months. It was regarding his doping controversy, which is yet to boil down.

John McEnroe admits that Jannik Sinner might face a doping ban

Last year, ahead of the US Open, it was revealed that Sinner had failed a couple of doping tests after testing positive for the banned substance, Clostebol. Although the ITIA didn’t hand him any ban initially, as he provided a valid justification behind his failed doping tests, WADA appealed in the CAS, asking for Jannik Sinner to be banned for 1-2 years. Additionally, it also wanted Sinner’s titles after the Indian Wells Masters to be scrapped. The CAS will hear the appeal in April, which will ultimately seal Sinner’s fate. Amid this, McEnroe admits that Sinner’s worst fears might come true.

He said, “Off the court, the issue with the drug thing. A suspension is looming potentially. I thought that would affect him at the US Open, but it didn’t and he played fantastic there. Then they said the case was over and done with and then it crops up again. So you are thinking that’s going to get into his head, but it doesn’t. He’s able to play just as effectively, if not better.”

While there is still time left for Sinner’s case to be heard, he would like to focus on the upcoming tournaments after his Australian Open triumph. However, for now, he can take some time off and enjoy his victory Down Under.