WADA Appeals Decision in Jannik Sinner Doping Case

Jannik Sinner, the top-ranked tennis player, expressed his disappointment after the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) announced it would appeal a previous ruling that cleared him of wrongdoing following two positive drug tests for the anabolic steroid clostebol. WADA is seeking a ban of one to two years, although it clarified that it does not intend to backdate any potential suspension, allowing Sinner to keep his recent U.S. Open title. The appeal comes after an independent tribunal determined he bore 'no fault or negligence' for the positive tests, attributing the contamination to a massage from his physiotherapist. Sinner, who won the U.S. Open this month, acknowledged the ongoing impact of the controversy on his performance, stating he tries to focus on the game despite the situation. WADA filed the appeal with the Court of Arbitration for Sport, arguing that the initial verdict was incorrect under the applicable rules. The case has reignited scrutiny and skepticism among peers regarding the fairness of the initial ruling.