The tennis world was shocked when news broke that world No. 1 Jannik Sinner had tested positive for a performance-enhancing drug. Three days later, Sinner confirmed that he had parted ways with his fitness coach, Umberto Ferrara, and physiotherapist, Giacomo Naldi, who were at the center of the doping scandal. In a press conference, Sinner expressed relief that the investigation was finally over after months of uncertainty.
During the press conference, Sinner clarified that he had never intentionally done anything wrong, but felt the need to distance himself from the individuals responsible for the prohibited substance entering his system. “Because of these mistakes, I’m not feeling that confident to continue with them,” Sinner said, reflecting on the challenging past few months.
Both Ferrara and Naldi had played crucial roles in Sinner’s rise to the top of the tennis rankings. However, following the doping controversy, Sinner’s team decided to part ways with the two individuals. “We have decided to part ways and are not working together anymore,” Sinner’s spokesperson announced on behalf of the team.
Over the past few months, Sinner has been juggling the stress of clearing his name through the anti-doping process while maintaining his position as the world’s best tennis player and competing in tournaments.
Amidst the controversy, Sinner has maintained his innocence and emphasized that he never intended to cheat. The ordeal began when he tested positive for clostebol, a banned anabolic steroid, during the Indian Wells tournament in March. Despite the adverse findings, an independent tribunal accepted Sinner’s explanation that the substance entered his system unknowingly through actions of his support team.
Sinner first tested positive during Indian Wells, where he lost in the semifinals to Carlos Alcaraz (George Walker/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
Despite the setback, Sinner was allowed to continue competing while under investigation. The positive tests have undoubtedly affected his reputation, but he remains steadfast in his commitment to fair play. Sinner acknowledged the tough road ahead but is determined to overcome the challenges and focus on his tennis career.
(Andy Cheung/Getty Images)
