"I had sleepless nights" - Jannik Sinner turns emotional over 'difficult' situation affecting him & team after WADA's appeal of doping verdict
Jannik Sinner shared the emotional toll of his doping controversy and how his inner circle has helped him stay focused. Since his failed drug tests were made public, the Italian has not lost a match on the tour.
Earlier this year, Sinner had tested positive twice for Clostebol - a performance-enhancing drug. Before the 2024 US Open campaign began, the news about his failed drug tests was made public as the World No. 1 was cleared of any negligence by the ITIA and an independent tribunal.
Sinner continued to assert his innocence in interviews and press conferences throughout his triumphant US Open run. However, amidst the China Open, WADA announced that they have appealed the ITIA's decision. The world body is seeking a two-year ban for the Italian.
During a press conference on Sunday, September 29, Carlos Alcaraz was asked about the latest developments in Sinner's case. The Spaniard claimed it was a negative thing for tennis in general while acknowledging the Italian's remarkable ability to maintain a high level of performance.
Since his failed doping tests were made public, Sinner has won all 10 of his matches on the tour. Most recently, he defeated Jiri Lehecka 6-2, 7-6 (6) in the quarterfinals of the China Open.
During his post-match press conference, he was informed about Alcaraz's comments on his form and was asked how he continues to focus on his game.
"First of all, it's not a situation where I like to be in, no? It's a very delicate and difficult and also different situation," Jannik Sinner said.
"But what I know is that I always try to remind myself that I haven't done anything wrong, which already just gives you a little bit head up. For sure I had sleepless nights during this time. Now again it's going to be not easy," he added.
Sinner claimed that he "somehow" focuses on his work and tries to do "everything possible" to be ready for his matches.
Sinner further acknowledged that this is a challenging time not just for himself but also for his team. He emphasized the importance of surrounding himself with people who support and understand him.
"He will have the crowd for him" - Jannik Sinner on facing Yunchaokete Bu in the China Open 2024 SF
Jannik Sinner was scheduled to face the winner of the quarterfinal between Andrey Rublev and Yunchaokete Bu. After the Italian defeated Jiri Lehecka in the quarterfinals, the Rublev-Bu match was yet to be played. During his press conference, Sinner was asked about both his potential opponents.
"Well, Bu I don't know at all as a player... We have to see. But he's playing some amazing tennis, maybe the best tennis he's playing," Jannik Sinner acknowledged.
"He's a very tough player to play against. He will have the crowd for him," he added.
Bu went on to defeat fourth seed Rublev 7-5, 6-4, to set up a first-ever encounter against World No. 1 Sinner. The pair will face off in the semifinal of the China Open at the Diamond Court on Tuesday, October 1. This marks Bu's second consecutive semifinal appearance on the tour following his impressive run in Hangzhou last week.