Big update in Jannik Sinner WADA appeal as CAS puts out statement on doping case

Jannik Sinner's doping case has received a major new update following the appeal from WADA (World Anti-Doping Agency) calling for a two-year ban on the World No. 1. After not accepting the ruling of the ITIA (International Tennis Integrity Agency), which gave a clean chit to Sinner, WADA appealed the matter to CAS (Court of Arbitration for Sport) earlier last month.

Sinner has come under a cloud in the tennis world since the US Open, where it came to light that the Italian had tested positive for a banned steroid called Clostebol. ITIA, however, ruled that the exposure was accidental, and let the two-time Grand Slam champ off with a small monetary fine and a minor ranking point penalty.

WADA, on the other hand, was not satisfied with the decision, much like a large number of the tennis community. The anti-doping agency, while not believing that Sinner was guilty of using the prohibited drug to improve his performance, felt that the 22-year-old should still be held responsible for the actions of his team, regardless of whether they were under his control or not.

Now, following the appeal, CAS has confirmed that its investigation into the matter has begun, with both the ITIA and Jannik Sinner's lawyers set to submit written reports of their arguments soon. CAS has also made it clear that for the moment, it is not possible to say with certainty when a decision will be announced by their expert panel.

It should be noted that any decision from CAS will be "final and binding," although both sides will have the option of filing an appeal in the Swiss Federal Tribunal within a span of 30 days.

Jannik Sinner continuing to play on the ATP Tour with the WADA appeal of his doping ban in the background

2024 China Open - Day 10 - Source: Getty

Unperturbed by all the noise from WADA's appeal of his doping verdict, Jannik Sinner continues to be a major part of the ATP Tour. After winning the US Open, his first tournament since news of the positive test came to light, Sinner starred at the China Open.

Although the World No. 1 reached the final, he couldn't overpower Carlos Alcaraz in the summit clash and failed to defend his title at the ATP 500 event. Now, the Italian is in action at the Shanghai Masters, where Alcaraz is also competing for the trophy alongside the likes of Novak Djokovic, Daniil Medvedev and Alexander Zverev.