Superstar Jannik Sinner is not going through an easy time. © APA/afp / HECTOR RETAMAL

Thoughtful Sinner: “That would surprise me very much”

Jannik Sinner will play his first match at the Masters tournament in Shanghai on Saturday (8 a.m. CEST). Beforehand, the Sexten superstar gave a deep insight into his inner life.

04 October 2024

From: det

Things are happening in quick succession for Jannik Sinner. On Wednesday, two days ago, the superstar played one of the most spectacular finals of the year with Carlos Alcaraz at the ATP 500 tournament in Beijing, and now the next tournament is already upon us. The Sextner wants to go far again at the Masters 1000 tournament in Shanghai.

The world number one enjoyed a bye at the start and will face Japanese Taro Daniel in the second round on Saturday (8 a.m. CEST). Sinner has played against the world number 93 once, at the 2022 Australian Open. Back then, the South Tyrolean prevailed in four sets.

“Even after a few days, I am still surprised by the appeal.” Jannik Sinner

Before Sinner arrives in the Chinese metropolis, he spoke again at the obligatory press conference about the doping issue, which has become a hot topic again since the appeal by WADA (World Anti-Doping Agency). "Even after a few days, I am still surprised by the appeal," said a thoughtful Sinner, who added optimistically: "At the same time, I am confident that everything will turn out well. If that is not the case, then that would really surprise me."

The Sextner does not feel well

Sinner knew that there was a possibility of an appeal. "But I was very surprised that it had come to this. But I will cooperate with them, as I have done before. We have already had three hearings, and each time we have gone into great detail. I thought that was enough. Of course I don't feel comfortable in this situation, that's for sure, also because I thought it was all over. That's why it's not easy for me."

Jannik Sinner at the press conference in Shanghai. © APA/afp / HECTOR RETAMAL

As a reminder: Sinner tested positive for the banned steroid clostebol twice in the spring, but was acquitted by an independent court. WADA then had the opportunity to file an appeal. Although it initially looked as if the World Anti-Doping Agency would not appeal, it announced a week ago that it would appeal the decision. The International Court of Arbitration for Sport in Lausanne must now rule on the case. The matter is likely to drag on for months.