World No.1 Jannik Sinner Wins First Match After Doping Ban at Italian Open

Jannik Sinner made a highly anticipated and successful return to professional tennis at the Italian Open after serving a three-month suspension for testing positive for a banned substance. The 23-year-old World No. 1, who had won 21 consecutive matches prior to his suspension, defeated Mariano Navone in straight sets, extending his winning streak to 22 matches and demonstrating no signs of rust or diminished fitness. The Italian crowd enthusiastically supported Sinner, who remains the first Italian Grand Slam champion since 1976 and is seen as the country’s new sporting icon. Despite the challenges of returning from a doping ban, Sinner's performance showed he remains the top player on tour as he aims to rebuild his momentum and continue competing at the highest level. His comeback is notable not only for the athletic achievement but also for navigating the moral and psychological complexities of such a suspension. Sinner is now set to face Jesper de Jong in the next round, with expectations high for him to sustain his dominance in men's tennis.