‘There is a lot of issues in the system’ - Novak Djokovic wants doping rules changed after Jannik Sinner escapes suspension

Tennis legend Novak Djokovic has been baffled by the sport's treatment of players after Jannik Sinner escaped punishment in the steroid scandal. It was recently revealed that the Italian had failed two anti-doping tests in March this year. He lost some ranking points and prize money but was not suspended or banned. 

The decision was taken in light of the International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) confirming it wasn't Sinner’s fault or negligence for the presence of the banned substance clostebol, but rather his physiotherapist. The news did not go down well with many in the tennis world, and Djokovic is the latest to criticise the rules and regulations. 

Also Read: 'This is a meme in the making' -Fans react to Jannik Sinner's explanation of failing doping test WATCH

We see a lack of standardised and clear protocols: Djokovic questions doping rules 

The Paris Olympics gold medalist says anti-doping rules in tennis need to be changed, with "clear protocols" and "standardised approaches". He appealed to the governing bodies to adopt a better approach in future so as not to take a different stance towards high-ranked and low-ranked players.

"There is a lot of issues in the system. We see a lack of standardised and clear protocols. I can understand the sentiments of a lot of players that are questioning whether they are treated the same. Hopefully, the governing bodies of our sport will be able to learn from this case and have a better approach for the future. Collectively there has to be a change, and I think that’s obvious," the World No. 2 said.

"Many players – without naming any of them [as] I’m sure you know already who – have had similar or pretty much the same cases, where they haven’t had the same outcome.”

"And now the question is whether it is a case of the funds, whether a player can afford to pay a significant amount of money for a law firm that would then more efficiently represent his or her case. I don’t know. Is that the case or not? That’s something really I feel like we have to collectively investigate more,” the Serbain further explained. 

Also Check: WATCH: Novak Djokovic shows off his Olympic gold medal as he makes his way to US Open court

Sinner will open his US Open 2024 campaign on Tuesday, against American Mackenzie McDonald. He is considered one of the favourites to clinch the title, especially after his recent success at the Cincinnati Open.