TURIN, Italy — Andrea Gaudenzi, chairman of the ATP Tour, expressed on Thursday that there might have been inadequacies in the communication regarding the doping case involving Jannik Sinner. However, during his remarks at the ATP Finals, he emphasized that suggesting a “double standard” in handling the situation due to Sinner’s high ranking is “unfair,” noting that the established rules apply universally.
This week marks Sinner’s opportunity to compete at home for the first time since it was disclosed before his triumph at the U.S. Open that he had tested positive for an anabolic steroid in two separate tests conducted in March. The public learned of the situation only in August.
Gaudenzi shared that he was informed of the situation just prior to the public announcement. In a discussion with international journalists, he stated, “To be honest, I’m happy about that. I genuinely appreciate the ITA (International Testing Agency) and our representatives for keeping me and our team uninformed intentionally, as was agreed upon.” He continued, “The process should maintain its independence, and while it was initially shocking, the subsequent evidence provided reassurance.”
An independent tribunal initially cleared Sinner of any misconduct, yet the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) lodged an appeal in September. The Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), based in Switzerland, is set to deliver a final decision regarding the matter in the early part of next year. Sinner has explained that the prohibited performance-enhancing substance entered his body accidentally during a physiotherapy session when his therapist used a spray containing the steroid for a personal injury. WADA is advocating for a suspension ranging from one to two years for Sinner.
Gaudenzi assured that the ongoing proceedings are entirely independent, affirming, “I truly believe the process has been fair. It adhered to regulations and protocols, although I see room for improvement in how the guidelines are communicated, which I hope all involved will prioritize for future cases.”
Additionally, Gaudenzi revealed plans to announce the future location of the ATP Finals on Sunday. With Turin’s contract expiring next year, there is consideration for relocating the prestigious event to Milan, where a larger venue is currently under development in time for the 2026 Milan-Cortina Olympics.