Carlos Alcaraz Reacts to Jannik Sinner’s Doping Ban and Sets Sights on World No. 1

Carlos Alcaraz has shared his thoughts on Jannik Sinner’s doping ban, addressing the suspension and turning his focus to reaching world No. 1.

The International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) ruled that Sinner bore “no fault or negligence” after testing positive for clostebol, but the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) later pursued an appeal, leading to a three-month suspension.

Jannik Sinner’s Doping Case and Suspension Details

Sinner, the current world No. 1, tested positive for clostebol, an anabolic steroid, in March 2024.

The banned substance was traced back to a spray used by his former physio, Giacomo Naldi.

While the ITIA initially ruled in Sinner’s favour, WADA appealed the decision to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), seeking a longer ban.

After negotiations, Sinner and WADA reached an agreement for a suspension from February 9 to May 4, 2025.

The three-time Grand Slam champion was forced to withdraw from the ATP 500 tournament in Doha, where he had been set to return after his 2025 Australian Open victory.

Carlos Alcaraz says Jannik Sinner being suspended doesn’t change anything for him, he will continue working to be #1 in the world

“Jannik Sinner will not be there. What do you think of the agreement regarding his suspension?”

Carlos: “The truth is that there is little to say.… pic.twitter.com/0PEYWlofs8

— The Tennis Letter (@TheTennisLetter) February 16, 2025

Carlos Alcaraz Focused on World No. 1 Ranking

With Sinner sidelined, Alcaraz sees an opportunity to close the gap in the ATP rankings.

Speaking to AS, the world No. 3 said, “As for the sanction, there is little to say. Whether Jannik plays or not, we try to do well in every tournament because number one is an objective.”

Alcaraz said that his main focus remains on improving his game and performing well in upcoming tournaments, including the Qatar Open, where he will now be the top seed in Sinner’s absence.

WADA’s Statement on the Settlement

In their official announcement, WADA confirmed that Sinner had accepted a three-month ban due to the negligence of his entourage.

The organisation acknowledged that Sinner had no intent to cheat and did not gain a performance-enhancing benefit, but reiterated that athletes are ultimately responsible for substances in their system.

“WADA accepts the athlete’s explanation for the cause of the violation… However, under the Code and by virtue of CAS precedent, an athlete bears responsibility for the entourage’s negligence.”

Sinner’s suspension means he can return to official training on April 13, 2025, ahead of his competitive comeback in May.