Wawrinka: “I No Longer Believe in Clean Sport”

Tennis stars question the equity of anti-doping decisions, pointing to favoritism in latest instances.

The tennis international is grappling with one in every of its largest controversies in current years, as issues about inconsistent anti-doping rulings continue to grow. Some of the sport’s largest names have spoken out, with Novak Djokovic overtly criticizing the procedure and Stan Wawrinka going even in addition, affirming, “I not agree with in clean game.”

The modern controversy facilities around Jannik Sinner, the world’s No. 1 participant, who changed into surpassed a 90-day suspension for trying out nice for the anabolic steroid clostebol. The ban, which started out on February 9 and will end on May four, comfortably falls between two Grand Slam tournaments and concludes just in time for the ATP Masters occasion in Rome.

This decision has sparked outrage among players, with many arguing that similar infractions have resulted in significantly harsher penalties for lower-ranked athletes. Critics claim that top stars are given preferential treatment, raising serious doubts about the integrity of the system.

Djokovic, Kyrgios, and Medvedev Speak Out

Novak Djokovic didn’t hold back in his assessment of the situation. “This is not good for the image of our sport. Most players feel like certain people are being protected,” the Serbian star said.

Nick Kyrgios, known for his outspoken nature, was even more direct. “A sad day for tennis. WADA initially recommended a one-to-two-year suspension. Of course, Sinner’s team fought it, and now he walks away with just three months. He keeps his titles, his prize money—nothing is taken away. So, is he guilty or not? Fairness in tennis simply doesn’t exist.”

Daniil Medvedev sarcastically commented on the apparent loophole in WADA’s handling of the case. “I hope from now on, every player negotiating a ban can say, ‘If you want to give me two years, I’ll take one month instead.’ If that’s the precedent, it’s fine. Otherwise, this whole thing is a joke.”

British player Liam Broady likened Sinner’s suspension to punishing a Premier League footballer by banning them only during the summer break.

How Sinner Avoided a Harsher Ban

Sinner tested positive twice for clostebol in March last year. Under anti-doping rules, every athlete is responsible for what enters their body, even if the contamination is unintentional. However, while other players have received severe penalties for similar violations, Sinner’s case was handled with surprising leniency.

Originally, WADA pushed for a stricter punishment, but the matter took an unexpected turn. After the International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) issued a lighter sanction, WADA appealed the decision, seeking a harsher sentence. But instead of allowing the case to go to arbitration, WADA reached a deal with Sinner and ITIA, finalizing the three-month ban without further review.

Sinner’s defense was well-prepared. On the very day he learned of his positive test, he filed an appeal. He promptly provided a contaminated cream sample, explaining how the substance entered his system. The swift and efficient response helped him secure a minimal suspension.

A Suspension That Barely Affects His Career

Despite the ban, Sinner is set to retain his position as world No. 1. He currently holds a commanding lead of more than 3,000 points over second-ranked Alexander Zverev. The tournaments he will miss—Doha, Indian Wells, Miami, Monte Carlo, and Madrid—are significant, but not career-defining. His suspension conveniently ends just three days before the Rome Masters, allowing him to compete in one of the most important clay-court events of the season.

The question remains: is this really a punishment? Many believe the timing of his ban suggests that top players receive favorable treatment, allowing them to escape real consequences.

Nick Kyrgios summed it up with his usual bluntness: “For future generations of tennis players—go ahead and dope, just make sure you ‘don’t know about it.’ If you test positive, go through an investigation, then negotiate a comfy little three-month suspension.”

American star Jessica Pegula echoed the frustration felt across the tour. “At this point, no player has faith in the anti-doping system. Not one. This is terrible for the sport.”

With leading players openly questioning the credibility of WADA and the ITIA, the sport finds itself at a crossroads. If trust in anti-doping regulations continues to erode, tennis risks losing its integrity—and the confidence of both players and fans.