Jannik Sinner wrapped up his impressive 2024 season as World No. 1, after clinching eight titles, including the Australian Open and the US Open. Yet, his triumphs were marred by a doping controversy after he tested positive for the banned substance, Clostebol in March. Sinner claimed it entered his system from his former physiotherapist, who transmitted it during glove-less massages. Although he was initially found to have no fault or negligence, WADA appealed this ruling in September, leaving Sinner and his team anxiously awaiting a verdict from CAS, while discussions continue to unfold amongst spectators.

Despite expressing gratitude for a successful year, Sinner feels the weight of a potential ban looming over him. He recently shared with Esquire that he “couldn’t talk to anyone about it” due to fear of judgment, leading to sleepless nights despite his belief in his innocence. Prominent lawyer Angelo Cascella weighed in on the case, warning of significant economic repercussions for Sinner.

On November 17, Cascella told Sport Mediaset, “Sponsorship contracts generally contain clauses that, in the event of a positive anti-doping test, can lead to the cancellation of a contract itself or to the payment of penalties by the athlete who may be found positive.” While Sinner’s title haul this year keeps him in contention even if a ban is imposed, the possibility of losing sponsors is very real. His impressive roster includes brands like Nike, Rolex, Gucci, Lavazza, and Alfa Romeo.

“The risk for the athlete is to face sanctions, with Wada having requested a disqualification of one to two years, therefore focusing on fault or negligence,” he added. For years, it has been seen that losing sponsors can severely impact a tennis player’s finances and reputation. These deals often make up a significant part of their income. This can hinder their marketability and even lead to early retirement. However, whether these sponsors withdraw remains unclear as CAS prepares to release its final verdict. Meanwhile, Sinner continues promoting these brands.

Earlier this Friday, Sinner shared an Instagram story about his Nike merchandise hitting stores in Torino, Roma, and Milano. So whether they would pull out is undisclosed by the brands as of now. The conversation around the doping controversy shows no signs of fading. Earlier this month, Australian lawyer Tim Fuller also offered his thoughts on what might unfold in Sinner’s case.

Australian lawyer gets candid about the doping cases for top players

On December 4, Tim Fuller, a Brisbane lawyer with expertise in doping cases, shared his insights with the Sydney Morning Herald regarding Jannik Sinner’s situation. He expressed skepticism about Sinner’s chances of avoiding a sanction, stating, “I believe that the decision of not guilty or negligent will be overturned on appeal and a sanction will be imposed.” This highlights the complexities athletes face in doping cases, where intent does not guarantee immunity. Fuller noted that while WADA acknowledges Sinner did not intentionally ingest Clostebol, they still hold him accountable for a degree of fault or negligence.

In a parallel case, WTA star Iga Swiatek recently faced a doping controversy after testing positive for the banned substance trimetazidine. She claimed the substance was used unintentionally for sleep issues. Despite her explanation, she received a one-month suspension and a fine in August. Unlike Swiatek’s situation, Sinner’s fate remains uncertain until CAS delivers its verdict. As Fuller stated, “What will be examined is the degree of guilt or negligence. Therefore we are talking about a sanction of one or two years.”

For now, Sinner has wrapped up his 2024 season and aims to carry his momentum into next year. Will the Italian player rise above this challenge and maintain his winner’s mindset? Only time will tell as he navigates this tumultuous period in his career.