Jannik Sinner’s physiotherapist breaks silence on World No. 1’s doping saga after being sacked

Jannik Sinner has been embroiled in a huge controversy after reports emerged last Tuesday that the World No. 1 failed two anti-doping tests in March this year. Clostebol, a banned steroid, was found in Sinner during tests at the Indian Wells Open. However, the Italian was given a clean chit by the International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) to avoid a two-year ban. 

An independent tribunal found that it wasn't Sinner’s fault or negligence for the presence of the banned substance. His physiotherapist, Giacomo Naldi, was blamed for the incident as he inadvertently applied the substance to his skin. Naldi reportedly did not wear gloves while treating Sinner after using a spray to treat a cut on his own finger. 

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In the wake of the steroid controversy, Sinner recently split with Naldi, who released a lengthy statement on social media. The physical therapist said that he had always remained fully professional and claimed he was the victim of a trial by the media. 

"It’s true that there are two paths to justice: the real one sanctioned by the courts and the (unfortunately more effective) sanctioned by media. The latter is too often superficial and rarely based on concrete facts, which in this case, by the way, are public,” Naldi wrote on Instagram. 

"As a spectator, I always wondered what was the purpose of spectacular court cases, if not to judge, create or destroy people and their reputation. Today I’m the star, I’ve confirmed it,” he added. 

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Thank you Jannik and good luck, for a great career: Giacomo Naldi wishes Sinner the best 

Naldi also recalled his incredible time with the Sinner's team over the past year and a half. He said he was proud to work with the Italian and wished him all the best for the future. 

"A year and a half ago I joined a fantastic work group, consisting of good people, great professionals, travel companions. With them I have lived moments of joy and pain, shared emotions, tasted victories and defeats. With the people of this group, I created a strong bond.

"Above all, I was able to achieve historical milestones that have brought us to the history of Italian tennis. I am proud to have been a part of this great team, aware that I have given my best, that I have been 100 per cent professional but also that I have given more, because when you put your heart into it you are sure to give more.

"It hurts to think of not being a part of it anymore, it's hard not to be in the box with you and cheering for Jannik, but I'll have to get used to it quickly. Thank you Jannik and good luck, for a great career, you are a champion. 

The developments come days ahead of the US Open and it is not sure whether Sinner has hired a new physiotherapist. The 23-year-old will open his hard-court tournament campaign on Tuesday, against American Mackenzie McDonald.  

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