Draper Defends Sinner as Italian Open Return Nears

Jack Draper has defended Jannik Sinner, the Italian world number one and three-time Grand Slam champion, as Sinner prepares to return from a three-month doping suspension. Sinner was suspended after testing positive for clostebol, a banned substance traced to accidental transfer from a support team member, and accepted a ban following a settlement with WADA despite being cleared of intent to cheat. The timing of Sinner's ban, which allows his return for major tournaments, has drawn criticism and allegations of favoritism from figures including Serena Williams and Nick Kyrgios. Draper, who practiced with Sinner during the suspension, emphasized Sinner's integrity and hopes the tennis community will welcome him back without hostility. Sinner is set to make his comeback at the Italian Open. The situation has reignited debate about fairness and consistency in anti-doping rulings for elite athletes.