Novak Djokovic has spoken candidly about the controversial doping case involving his ATP rival, Jannik Sinner. The Serbian legend, who has long been vocal about fairness and transparency in tennis, shared his thoughts on what he called several “red flags” surrounding how the Italian’s suspension was handled.
Sinner tested positive twice in 2024 for Clostebol, a banned anabolic substance commonly associated with performance enhancement. As a result, he received a three-month suspension earlier in 2025. However, the decision sparked widespread debate across the tennis community. Many critics suggested that Sinner, one of the sport’s rising superstars, might have benefited from preferential treatment due to his growing influence and marketability within the ATP Tour.
In a recent interview with Piers Morgan, Djokovic addressed the issue directly. Despite expressing sympathy for Sinner and stating his belief that the violation was likely unintentional, the 24-time Grand Slam champion didn’t shy away from questioning the way the case was managed.
“When I first heard about it, I was genuinely shocked,” Djokovic admitted. “I honestly don’t think Jannik did it deliberately. But when you look at how the entire situation unfolded, there are just too many red flags. The process lacked transparency, and there were inconsistencies all along. The timing of the suspension was also very convenient — it fell neatly between Grand Slams, meaning he didn’t miss any major events. It was all very, very strange.”
Djokovic went on to compare Sinner’s punishment with those given to other players in similar circumstances. He argued that the short duration of the Italian’s ban was disproportionate when measured against past doping cases in tennis, where athletes were sidelined for far longer periods for comparable violations.
“I want to believe him,” Djokovic continued. “I’ve known Jannik for a while, and my impression is that he didn’t do this intentionally. Still, as players, we are responsible for what goes into our bodies — those are the rules. But when you see others facing suspensions of one, two, or even four years for similar or lesser offences, and then someone else gets only three months, it doesn’t sit right. It’s clearly inconsistent.”
Despite his criticisms of the system, Djokovic made it clear that his comments weren’t directed at Sinner personally. On the contrary, he offered praise for how the Italian handled the scrutiny and public backlash following the doping revelations.
According to Djokovic, Sinner demonstrated remarkable poise and resilience during an immensely challenging period. “I genuinely feel empathy and compassion for him,” the Serbian said. “It’s not easy to go through something like that, especially when the media keeps bringing it up. Yet, he’s dealt with the pressure in a very mature and steady way. I have to give him credit for that.”
Indeed, Sinner’s performances on court have been nothing short of remarkable in the aftermath of the controversy. Since his suspension, he has gone on to achieve extraordinary success, claiming three Grand Slam titles — at the Australian Open, Wimbledon, and US Open — as well as several other ATP tournament victories. His continued dominance has reinforced his status as one of the brightest young talents in the sport, despite the lingering shadows of the doping saga.
Djokovic acknowledged these accomplishments and commended Sinner’s ability to remain focused despite external distractions. “Even with everything that’s been said and written, he’s continued to play at an unbelievable level,” Djokovic remarked. “Winning multiple Slams after going through that situation shows real mental strength. He’s proven his ability to overcome adversity, and I respect him for that.”
As of now, Jannik Sinner is in Turin, Italy, preparing to defend his ATP Finals title on home soil — an event that could cap off another stellar year for the 23-year-old.
Meanwhile, Novak Djokovic has opted to withdraw from the year-end championships, citing a shoulder injury sustained shortly after clinching his 101st career title at the Hellenic Championship in Athens, Greece. His absence marks a rare moment of rest for the world’s most decorated active player, who continues to speak out on issues affecting the integrity and fairness of professional tennis.
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