Nick Kyrgios snaps back at Andy Roddick after American's cheeky dig at him amid Jannik Sinner drugs controversy

Nick Kyrgios took a jab at Andy Roddick for backing Jannik Sinner, claiming that 'prohibited at all times' doesn't justify Roddick's explanation that one billionth of a gram of clostebol was not injurious. The World No. 1 tested positive for the anabolic androgenic steroid (included in the WADA list of prohibited substances) twice, but an independent tribunal's decision didn't hold him accountable.

Jannik Sinner tested positive for clostebol twice at the Indian Wells tournament, as per the International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) announcement on Tuesday (August 21). At the tournament, Sinner’s physiotherapist, Giacomo Naldi, treated his finger wound with Trofodermin, containing traces of clostebol. As Naldi massaged the Italian with bare hands, the steroid contacted the latter's skin, resulting in failed tests.

Though Jannik Sinner was provisionally suspended, his appeal ruled a decision in his favor. An independent tribunal, summoned by the ITIA, reviewed Sinner's anti-doping case investigation and stated that there was “no fault or negligence” on the Italian's end.

In support, US former tennis player, Andy Roddick said that the Italian was clean at the 2024 Australian Open after the internet rallied in Sinner's defense. Nick Krygrios spoke against him, calling a Sinner fan 'dumbass' on X.

Roddick lashed back, saying:

"Dumbass is one word ….."

Kyrgrios' defending statement read:

"Thanks for the heads up. Could you also explain what prohibited at all times means?

According to the banned list of WADA, clostebol is placed in the 'prohibited at all times' section.

Sinner was allowed to participate in the 2024 US Open but was stripped of his ranking points, prize money, and results from the BNP Paribas Open in Indian Wells, California (his first failed drug test venue).

---

Jannik Sinner received criticism from several tennis players across the globe

After the anti-doping episode, Canadian player Denis Shapovalov was quick to respond, saying:

"Can’t imagine what every other player that got banned for contaminated substances is feeling right now"

British player Liam Broady spoke along the same lines, writing:

"Whether Sinner was doping or not. This is not right. Plenty of players go through the same thing and have to wait months or YEARS for their innocence to be declared. Not a good look."

Even Tara Moore went through the same but her case was dealt with differently, sidelining her for 19 months. Former Wimbledon champion Simona Halep faced the same but her ban lasted four years, putting her career at stake.

Jannik Sinner will face Mackenzie McDonald in the first round of the 2024 US Open, slated for August 27, 2024.