World No 1 Jannik Sinner Wins Italian Open Return After Doping Ban

Jannik Sinner made a successful return to professional tennis at the Italian Open following a three-month doping ban, defeating Mariano Navone 6-3, 6-4. This marked his first match since winning the Australian Open in January and ending a 104-day absence due to an accidental contamination case accepted by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA). Despite some controversy over the ban's leniency, Sinner was warmly welcomed by a packed and supportive home crowd at Foro Italico, extending his winning streak to 22 matches. Sinner expressed happiness to be back and indicated that while his performance could improve, the result was secondary to his return to competition. The top-ranked player is aiming to build momentum towards the upcoming French Open after this home tournament comeback. His next match is against Jesper de Jong, following a bye into the second round as the top seed.