Simona Halep sends 4-word message to Jannik Sinner’s coach Darren Cahill after Italian's Australian Open win amid anger over his doping row

Simona Halep congratulated Jannik Sinner's coach, Darren Cahill, after the Italian's historic triumph at the 2025 Australian Open. Notably, her message came amid ongoing frustration over the 23-year-old's doping controversy.

Halep tested positive for the banned substance Roxadustat during the 2022 US Open. Initially handed a four-year doping ban, the Romanian successfully appealed and reduced it to nine months. She made her return to the tour at the 2024 Miami Open.

Meanwhile, Sinner tested positive for Clostebol during his campaign at the BNP Paribas Open last year. The World No. 1 faced a provisional suspension but successfully contested the ruling, enabling him to continue competing on tour. He clarified that the exposure to the banned substance occurred inadvertently during physiotherapy treatment.

Several players, including Simona Halep, criticized Jannik Sinner's verdict as preferential treatment. Last year, the 33-year-old condemned the secrecy surrounding Sinner and Iga Swiatek's cases as they were revealed only after they were settled.

Despite her frustration with the three-time Major champion's doping controversy in recent months, Simona Halep posted on her Instagram story congratulating Sinner's coach Darren Cahill. Notably, Cahill has also enjoyed a successful stint with Halep.

Check out her story below:

"so happy for you," she wrote.

Simona Halep's Instagram story; ( Source - Instagram @simonahalep)

Jannik Sinner claimed his third Grand Slam title at the Rod Laver Arena on Sunday, January 26, easily defeating second seed Alexander Zverev.

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Jannik Sinner shared a poignant message to coach Darren Cahill following Australian Open triumph

2025 Jannik Sinner with Darren Cahill at Australian Open -Image Source: Getty

Jannik Sinner took control from the start, securing the first set 6-3. While the second set went to a tiebreak, the Italian triumphed 7-6(4), before replicating the first set's score in the third to clinch the match.

After the match, Sinner paid a heartfelt tribute to his coaching team, particularly his 59-year-old Australian coach Darren Cahill. For those unaware, the World No. 1 had previously announced that he would part ways with Cahill after the 2025 season, with the Aussie expressing his wish to reduce his full-time tour commitments.

In light of this, Sinner said during his post-match interview:

"I know also a part of the team is at home and then my family and everyone, but it's amazing to, to achieve these things, but mostly to share this with you guys and...I know it's your, probably, maybe...maybe I try to convince you...but it's your last Australian Open as a coach, and I'm very, very happy to share this trophy with you."

Sinner's words made Cahill emotional, with the latter saying last year that he wouldn’t coach another player full-time once his partnership with the three-time Major champion ends.