Jannik Sinner has secured a well-deserved spot in the US Open semifinals. Despite the shadows of a doping saga looming over him, the Italian remains undeterred in his pursuit of the US Open title. His ability to stay focused and rise above the noise can be credited to the unwavering support of his team as well as his girlfriend, Anna Kalinskaya. After making it to the Round of 4 at Flushing Meadows, Sinner reflected on how his close ones helped him navigate negativity in recent times.

During the Indian Wells tournament, Sinner tested positive for Clostebol, a synthetic anabolic steroid prohibited by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA). Only eight days later, he had another positive out-of-competition test, which resulted in his provisional suspension. But Sinner’s team moved quickly, and they were able to successfully appeal the suspension, enabling him to resume playing on the Tour.

Later, the Italian explained to the Independent Tribunal that he came in contact with the banned substance unintentionally, as his physio applied a spray, which had Clostebol in it, on his own wound and later treated him without gloves. The explanation was accepted by the tribunal and the World No. 1 was let off without a ban.

But when the news became public, Sinner had to face a lot of criticism, not just from fans, but also from fellow players, some of whom thought that the Italian should have been banned. When questioned about how he stays focused in the face of so many distractions, Sinner highlighted the value of his inner circle, including his girlfriend, Anna Kalinskaya.

“I have my team and my people who are close to me. You know, they know me, they know I always stick with the people who know me and believe me. It’s a very important part. And obviously, I’m very happy to have them, you know, coach-wise and also off the court,” Sinner said. Even though Kalinskaya’s own US Open run was cut short, she was spotted supporting her boyfriend, when he played the quarter-final match against Daniil Medvedev.

Sinner also mentioned that he has left the doping controversy behind and is looking forward to the upcoming semi-final. “Yeah, obviously in the beginning was a bit, was a tough situation, but, you know, day by day it went better. So yeah, I’m happy about that. Let’s see now in the semis what I can do.”

Many former and current tennis players have expressed their opinions on the doping controversy involving Jannik Sinner. While some of them have been critical, Sinner has found support from the former World No. 1 Rafael Nadal who stepped in to back the young Italian star.

Rafael Nadal defends Jannik Sinner amid doping controversy

Speaking about the doping controversy, Nadal put complete trust in the judgment process of the Independent Tribunal. In an interview on the El Hormiguero talk show, the 22-time Grand Slam champion remarked, “I trust that he wasn’t punished because those who judged this case determined quite clearly that there was nothing to punish.” Nadal emphasized that Sinner’s status as World No. 1 did not influence the outcome, adding, “I don’t believe the sentence has anything to do with him being No. 1 in the world.”

As Sinner continues his pursuit of success, the backing from legends like Rafael Nadal might boost his confidence, as he looks to add to his Grand Slam tally. The World No. 1 has already won one Grand Slam title this year and would like to finish the season on a high with another moment of glory at Flushing Meadows. Do you think Sinner can go all the way and win the US Open title? Let us know in the comments below.