The world number one has undeniably cemented his position as the ATP’s premier tennis player, and 2024 has proven to be a year marked by both remarkable triumphs and unexpected slumps.
Starting and ending the year with two Grand Slam titles has elevated his trophy count to seven for the year, along with impressive Masters victories in Cincinnati and Shanghai. However, the tennis world was left reeling following the shocking news of Jannik Sinner's failed drug test back in March, a development that has cast a shadow over the season.
The Italian athlete, who tested positive for the banned substance clostebol, was initially cleared of any wrongdoing by the International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA). However, the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) has chosen to revisit the case, marking the first instance where WADA has appealed a decision made by the ITIA.
The news of a positive test did not derail Sinner’s ambitions on the court; he has only suffered one defeat since the announcement in August. However, in hindsight, many are scrutinizing his year, analyzing his mannerisms and challenges on the court, particularly the health issues he faced over the summer.
Sinner recalled the darkest phase of his career
Sinner acknowledged that he experienced a period of darkness and stated that he wouldn’t wish such a phase on anyone. He expressed his struggle succinctly, admitting that he was at a loss for words. He immediately sought to comprehend how this situation unfolded, despite not having done anything wrong. Refusing to accept it as reality, he felt a profound sense of loss.
He remembered the challenges he faced; it was difficult to confide in anyone. Those who knew him and witnessed his performance recognized that something was off. He felt a strong concern about how his fellow players might perceive him and what judgments they might make. Ultimately, this experience clarified who his true friends were, highlighting the importance of genuine support during tough times.
“I don’t wish anyone to go through what I went through, I was in Monte Carlo and Alex Vittur called me and said Jannik, you’re positive," Sinner said.
“I had a moment of total darkness, I didn’t know what to say. Nothing came out of my mouth. I immediately tried to understand how it could have happened, but I hadn’t done anything. I didn’t even want to believe it: I felt lost.” Sinner added.
“It was tough. I couldn’t talk to anyone about it, those who knew me and saw me play noticed that something was wrong. At Wimbledon, I was white on the court, but even afterward I was scared… in Cincinnati, I went to the club and wondered: ‘How will the other players look at me? What will they think of me?’ That’s when I really understood who my friends are.” he added.
Sinner has showcased commendable composure throughout a season that has presented numerous challenges and controversies.