PTPA slams WADA over Jannik Sinner’s three-month doping ban

As per recent reports, PTPA has recently released an official statement slamming WADA and ATP after the Jannik Sinner’s doping ban for three months. Jannik Sinner has received a brief three-month ban owing to the doping scandal after testing positive for the clostebol an anabolic steroid. This verdict has sparked various reactions from the Tennis fraternity. 

On one hand, many argue that other players have been subjected to even more criticism and punishment based on minor infractions or breach of the code of conduct. It is alleged that Jannik Sinner’s reputation as the world number one has been an added advantage in reducing the punishment for the player. 

The PTPA (Professional Tennis Player Association) headed by Novak Djokovic and Vasek Pospisil has issued an official statement saying, “No matter who you root for, several things are now clear. The "system" is not a system. It's a club. Supposed case-by-case discretion is, in fact, merely cover for tailored deals, unfair treatment, and inconsistent rulings.This bias is unacceptable for all athletes and shows a deep disrespect for every sport and its fans. It's time for change. And we will change it.” 

'The lack of commitment...'

As per Article 10.8.2 of the WADA code, Jannik Sinner and team have reached a settlement agreement resulting in a  three months suspension from the game. However, this response by the tennis committee was not satisfactory for PTPA. 

“It's not just the different results for different players. It's the lack of transparency. The lack of process. The lack of consistency. The lack of credibility in the alphabet soup of agencies charged with regulating our sports and athletes. The lack of commitment from the ATP, WTA, Grand Slams, ITIA, and WADA to reform and create a fair and transparent system going forward,” PTPA further added.

In December, Iga Swiatek also was subjected to a ban of one month owing to her doping scandal. Prior to this, Simona Halep’s case can also be considered as precedent to this case as the Romanian number one retired from the game, after failing to receive a hearing from CAS and WADA.