Just days before his return to the ATP circuit, Jannik Sinner broke his silence about the most difficult moments he faced after news of his doping case became public. The world number one, who will compete next week at the Masters 1000 in Rome, shared in an interview with RAI how he felt after the controversy and the impact it had on his professional and personal life. His suspension ends on May 4, but the process was much more than a pause in his career: it was an emotional turning point.

“Before the Australian Open, I wasn’t happy,” said the Italian, who explained that during the tournament, he felt the mistrust of his fellow players. He mentioned that the looks and behaviors in locker rooms and cafeterias were different, and that he even considered stepping away from tennis. Despite knowing he was innocent, he struggled to face the criticism, the rumors, and the media pressure. Today, after months of introspection and legal proceedings, Sinner feels ready to come back stronger.

A comeback with clear accounts and new convictions

The Italian was firm in defending that his case followed the same protocols as other similar cases and that he did not receive any preferential treatment. “I had to file many appeals, and I was tested perhaps even more than others. Everything was rechecked by WADA,” he said. He explained that the substance detected was due to contamination and that doctors confirmed it didn’t enhance his performance. Even so, the experience deeply affected him and forced him to reconsider his relationship with the sport.

In his testimony, Sinner made it clear that being falsely accused affected him both on and off the court. “People can say whatever they want, but I know what I went through,” he said, adding that he wouldn’t wish anyone to go through something similar while being innocent. However, he also admitted that he misses the circuit and is ready to return to compete. His comeback in Rome will be more than a sporting return: it will be the vindication of an athlete who chose to face the storm with transparency and conviction.