It’s double trouble for Jannik Sinner. As if seemingly enduring a restless sleep owing to a wrist injury scare before his US Open summit clash wasn’t enough, his success continues to be marred by doping controversies. The Italian superstar has been on the ropes for the past few months. He tested positive for a banned substance, Clostebol, twice in March but hasn’t faced the music. However, the Italian’s feared nightmare might be en route.

Ahead of contesting with Taylor Fritz at the Arthur Ashe Stadium on Sunday, August 8, the top seed’s doping saga will be taken up the very next day. The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) and Nado Italia’s pleas for the young talent’s sentence, stating a “total lack of blame or negligence” as of August 19, has earned a deadline of Monday midnight. While Sinner might not be out of hot waters just yet, chances are WADA won’t aim for a sentence reversal.

If an appeal were to be granted, they would plead for an admission of partial guilt, wherein he can be awarded with 4-6 months of disqualification. It’s no surprise that the agency has previously appealed judgments of the international federations. However, urging WADA’s appeal against the decision of the third-party federation is a first. Sinner is facing immense heat due to his doping controversy.

Tennis bigwigs, including the likes of Nick Kyrgios, have already expressed their resentment over the panel’s decision. Having avoided punishment by furnishing an Independent Tribunal with a satisfactory explanation, Kyrgios slammed the “ridiculous” ruling in Sinner’s doping case. Moreover, legendary icons Novak Djokovic and Roger Federer have also called out the “inconsistencies” in his case, raising concerns over impartial treatment.

For those unaware, the World No. 1 was found to have bore no fault or negligence in his doping case. However, to make reparations, the Italian also fired his physiotherapist who was responsible for administering the contaminated cream. Regardless of the outcome, with Sinner’s solid admission forfeiting guilty claims, he is focused on what’s ahead. He is the first Italian pro to reach the finals of the Flushing Meadows Slam.

Jannik Sinner on dueling with Taylor Fritz: “He can hit strong“

Jannik Sinner knows his upcoming rival is no joke. After all, Taylor Fritz has enjoyed a laudable run this season. Having contested twice on the ATP Tour, with a head-to-head deadlock of 1-1, both players will be keen to gain an edge. Consequently, the No. 1 seed commented on what he thinks of the American star during an on-court interview.

He said, “Well, big serve. Very solid player from the back of the court. He can hit strong, with rotation. He can mix up the game very well, has played a lot this year, so, you know, he has a lot of rhythm for the match. It’s going to be a tough match, in any case.”

American hope Fritz will arrive in the title decider on the back of a thriller five-set victory over countryman Frances Tiafoe. In hopes of concluding the nation’s Grand Slam drought, Fritz will be highly motivated. With both players delivering immense resilience, what do you make of their chances and Sinner’s fate in his doping saga? Do let us know in the comments.