Fri Jan 10 18:06:57 UTC 2025: ## Sinner’s Doping Case Headed to CAS Hearing

**Melbourne, Australia** – World number one tennis player Jannik Sinner will face a Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) hearing on April 16-17 regarding allegations of doping, the organization announced Friday. The hearing, which will be held behind closed doors, follows an appeal by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) after the International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) cleared Sinner of wrongdoing.

Sinner tested positive twice for the banned steroid clostebol in March 2022. He maintains the substance entered his system through a contaminated spray used by his physiotherapist to treat a cut. While the ITIA accepted this explanation, WADA is challenging the decision.

Speaking on the eve of the Australian Open, Sinner acknowledged the ongoing investigation weighs heavily on him, stating, “It’s something what I have with me now already for quite a long time. But it is what it is.” He reiterated his belief in his innocence and his commitment to careful medication practices.

ATP chairman Andrea Gaudenzi defended the process, asserting that Sinner’s case “was run by the book” and denying any preferential treatment. However, criticism has arisen regarding the lack of transparency surrounding the case. Former world number one Novak Djokovic expressed frustration at the five-month delay between Sinner receiving the news of the positive tests and the public announcement, stating players were “kept in the dark.” The delay and the subsequent appeal have cast a shadow over Sinner’s participation in the Australian Open.

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