Jannik Sinner's Steroid Saga and Team Shake-Up: A Close Look

Jannik Sinner, a top-ranked tennis player, recently fired his fitness trainer and physiotherapist after testing positive for a banned steroid. Despite the initial concern, it was determined the substance entered his system unintentionally. Sinner remains cleared to play and is focused on the upcoming U.S. Open.

Jannik Sinner, a prominent figure in tennis, recently parted ways with his fitness trainer, Umberto Ferrara, and physiotherapist, Giacomo Naldi, following two positive steroid tests in March. Sinner addressed the issue at his pre-U.S. Open press conference, expressing relief that he was not suspended.

The 23-year-old Italian, who has reached the No. 1 ranking and won his first Grand Slam title in January, faced considerable anxiety during the investigation. The International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) determined that the banned steroid Clostebol entered Sinner's system unintentionally via a massage that Naldi gave him.

Despite the challenging circumstances, Sinner remains undeterred as he prepares to face Mackie McDonald in the first round of the U.S. Open. He maintains his innocence and is committed to respecting anti-doping rules, aiming to cement his reputation as a rising star in the sport.

(With inputs from agencies.)