World No. 1 Jannik Sinner tests positive for banned steroid, but avoids suspension

The GIST: World No. 1 Jannik Sinner received an anti-doping sanction yesterday for testing positive for a banned substance twice in March, news that came less than 24 hours after he won the Cincinnati Masters. A BFD, made even bigger by the looming US Open — let’s dig in.

The details: On March 10th, during Indian Wells, Sinner tested positive for low levels of clostebol, a banned steroid that can help athletes increase muscle mass. Eight days later, he again tested positive for the same substance but did not learn of the results until April. He was then suspended, but appealed and was permitted to continue playing.

• Sinner claimed he tested positive because his physiotherapist used a spray containing the steroid on his own hand after cutting himself. The physio then massaged Sinner without gloves on, apparently transferring the clostebol.

• The International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) conducted a full investigation that concluded on August 15th and found Sinner “bore no fault or negligence” for the doping violations.

• Furthermore, according to the ITIA’s decision, an independent scientist determined that the very small amount of clostebol in Sinner’s system wouldn’t have had any effect — positive or negative — on his performance, regardless of intent. Alrighty then.

What’s next: As a result of the initial positive drug test, Sinner will forfeit the $325K he won for reaching the semifinals at Indian Wells, as well as the 400 ATP ranking points he earned. But much to the chagrin of some of his fellow players, that’s where the punishment ends.

• Sinner is free to play at the US Open (with a strong chance to win his second major of the season) when the final Grand Slam of the year begins next week. One thing’s for sure, all eyes will be on him in NYC.