Controversy Engulfs Tennis Over Jannik Sinner's Clearance

Denis Shapovalov and other tennis players have raised concerns about double standards in tennis following the clearance of world number one Jannik Sinner, despite failing two drug tests this year. The International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) cleared Sinner, leading to criticism from the tennis community, including former top 10 player Shapovalov.

Denis Shapovalov was among players highlighting alleged double standards in the sport after world number one Jannik Sinner was cleared of any wrongdoing by the International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) despite failing two drug tests this year. ITIA announced on Tuesday that Sinner was exonerated by an independent tribunal, prompting swift criticism from Shapovalov and others who suggested the Italian received preferential treatment.

"Can't imagine what every other player that got banned for contaminated substances is feeling right now," Shapovalov expressed on social media. "Different rules for different players."

Sinner's team declined to engage in social media debates, stating, "Jannik has been found innocent following a rigorous process and a detailed review by an independent panel." They added that the reasons were explained in the publicly available decision from the tribunal. Sinner's coach, Darren Cahill, told ESPN they wanted to move past the incident. "We're not looking for any sorrow or anything because we are quite thankful there is no ban attached," he said.

(With inputs from agencies.)