Top-ranked tennis player Jannik Sinner returned to competition Monday at the Internazionali BNL d’Italia in Rome, appearing before a large crowd for a practice session and media availability after a three-month doping ban. The 23-year-old Italian expressed low expectations for his performance at the tournament, focusing instead on gauging his current playing level.
Sinner’s return follows a settlement with the World Anti-Doping Agency regarding two positive tests for a banned substance in 2024. While the International Tennis Integrity Agency initially found he bore no fault, WADA appealed the decision, leading to the three-month period of ineligibility that expired Monday.
He was greeted with a standing ovation at his press conference and drew nearly 5,000 fans to his practice session, which was also televised. The reception came despite the circumstances of his absence.
“It's a very, very low expectation tournament in general, talking results wise,” said Sinner, who has never advanced past the quarter-finals in Rome. “For me, what's missing is the complete feedback of where my level is.”
Sinner spent the time away from the court with family and friends, engaging in activities like cycling and gradually easing back into tennis training. He noted the physical adjustment, including developing blisters on his hands again.
The Italian maintained his No. 1 ranking in the PIF ATP Rankings despite not competing since winning the Australian Open in January. He stated he was not closely watching matches during his ban until recently, focusing instead on the Race To Turin standings.
The settlement that led to his ban has drawn scrutiny from some fellow players, who felt it was too lenient given it allowed Sinner to avoid missing any Grand Slam events. Sinner acknowledged the difficulty of accepting the ban but called it the "best in a very bad moment."
Following a first-round bye, Sinner is scheduled to play his opening match Saturday against the winner of the match between Mariano Navone and Italian wild card Federico Cina. His potential quarter-final opponent, based on seeding, is Casper Ruud.
Sinner practiced with Jiri Lehecka upon his return to the Foro Italico courts Monday.
“It's very strange feeling again in the beginning to be around so many people and attention," Sinner said. "But it's nice to be back, me and my team are very happy.”
