Novak Djokovic has cast doubt on the “convenience” surrounding Jannik Sinner’s doping ban, suggesting the young Italian’s career will forever carry a “cloud” of suspicion.
During an interview on Piers Morgan Uncensored, the 24-time Grand Slam champion spoke candidly about how the case was handled, saying it raised several questions about fairness and transparency within professional tennis.
A “Cloud” That Won’t Disappear
“It’s just something that was so major,” Djokovic said. “Over time, it might fade, but I don’t think it will completely disappear. There’ll always be a group of people who will bring it up.”
In February, the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) handed Jannik Sinner a three-month suspension after he twice tested positive for the anabolic agent clostebol in March 2024.
Questioning the Timing and Transparency
The Serbian star didn’t hold back when addressing the timing of Sinner’s suspension, describing it as “very odd.”
“There was a lack of transparency, inconsistency, and the convenience of the ban coming between the Grand Slams — so he wouldn’t miss the major tournaments,” Djokovic told Morgan. “It just didn’t sit right.”
“Preferential Treatment” and Responsibility
While Djokovic said he believes Sinner didn’t intentionally take a banned substance, he hinted that the case appeared to be handled with preferential treatment.
“I didn’t like how the situation was managed,” he said. “I want to believe he didn’t do it on purpose. But at the end of the day, he’s responsible — those are the rules.”
Serena Williams Also Questions the Short Ban
Serena Williams has also expressed disbelief over the short suspension handed to Sinner, claiming she would have faced far tougher consequences in her era.
“If I did that, I would have gotten 20 years,” she told Time in an April interview. “Let’s be honest. I never took anything stronger than Advil. They would have stripped my Grand Slams. You’d have heard about it in another multiverse.”
Djokovic Praises Sinner’s Resilience
Despite his criticism, Djokovic commended Sinner’s composure in dealing with ongoing scrutiny.
“It’s not easy for him,” Djokovic said. “He’s handled the media storm maturely and steadily. Kudos to him. Despite everything, he’s still dominating — still winning Slams and performing incredibly.”
