"Shame on Novak Djokovic"; "Only player that has b*lls to talk against system" - Fans divided over Serb's stance on Nick Kyrgios-Jannik Sinner saga

Tennis fans were split in their opinions regarding Novak Djokovic's stance on the Nick Kyrgios and Jannik Sinner saga. Sinner tested positive for clostebol twice in March 2024 and since then he has been been the subject of criticism from many, including Kyrgios.

Following his positive tests, Sinner appealed his case and an independent tribunal determined that he was not at fault for the anti-doping rule violations and he consequently avoided getting suspended.

When asked about Kyrgios' vocal disapproval of Sinner's doping case, Djokovic defended the Australian's right to express his views, stating that everyone has the freedom to speak their mind.

“We live in a world where everyone has the right to express themselves. Nick has spoken a lot about the whole Jannik Sinner doping case, and he's right about the transparency and the inconsistency of the protocols and the comparisons between the various cases," he said.

The former World No.1 added:

"We have seen many players in the past, and also currently, who have been suspended for not even having undergone anti-doping tests and for not having communicated their whereabouts, and some lower-ranked players who have been waiting for their cases to be resolved for more than a year," he added.

Tennis fans had varying reactions to Djokovic's position on the dispute between Nick Kyrgios and Jannik Sinner, with many taking to social media to share their thoughts.

One fan disagreed with the 24-time Grand Slam champion supporting Kyrgios, whom they referred to as a "clown."

“Novak, you used to be one of my favorite players, but after this statement, I can no longer support you. Shame on you Novak, you’re agreeing with biggest clown Kyrgios," a fan posted.

On the other hand, numerous fans supported Djokovic's stance, praising the Serb for having the courage to voice what others were thinking:

“The only athlete that has the b*lls to talk against the system," a fan wrote.

“Spot on from Novak. We need more transparency and clarity regarding doping cases in tennis," a fan posted.

“He’s right! Tennis stinks right now. Heck, has for a long time," a fan wrote.

Here are some more fan reactions:

“Imagine preaching about transparency and image of the sport when the shameless narcissist was himself trying to sneak into a country breaking their vaccination rules," a fan posted.

“It is also not a good look for the sport to have the most relevant player not to understand the ITIA and WADA regulation," a fan wrote.

“20+ years in tennis world and he doesn't know that: 1) Silence in investigations is ITIA rule to not harm the same investigation 2) There's s a code that rules the player conduct. What should I think, @DjokerNole??? You live in your own world or this is a clear position from you?" a fan posted.

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Jannik Sinner on Nick Kyrgios' criticism of him after doping saga: “Everyone is free to say everything, it is what it is"

Jannik Sinner speaking to the press [Source: Getty]

In August 2024, during a US Open press conference, Jannik Sinner addressed Nick Kyrgios criticizing him after he tested positive for clostebol. He expressed that everyone is entitled to their opinions, and he simply accepts it for what it is.

“I don't want to respond on what he said. Everyone is free to say everything, so it's okay. I don't know what to say. I'm someone who forgets quite fast something. As I said, everyone is quite free to say everything, so it is what it is," Jannik Sinner said.

Looking ahead, Sinner will start his 2025 season at the Australian Open. He will be defending his title in Melbourne having won it in 2024 after defeating Daniil Medvedev in the final.

Meanwhile, Novak Djokovic and Nick Kyrgios will begin their 2025 season at the Brisbane International. The two players will also team up to compete in the doubles event together.