Casper Ruud (left) and Jannik Sinner (right). © APA/afp / MARCO BERTORELLO

Ruud on Sinner: “Innocent and unhappy”

In just over a week, Jannik Sinner will be officially allowed to return to training. He will make his comeback in Rome at the beginning of May. In the meantime, his suspension continues to be a topic of conversation.

06 April 2025

From: do

Jannik Sinner sat down with Sky Sport on Saturday and had an in-depth conversation about the period of his suspension. The conversation covered leisure activities, personal changes, and much more. Although the Sextner appeared to be in a good mood and cheerful, one topic in particular made his mouth turn down—namely, when he was asked about the comments of his tennis colleagues.

The constant and harsh words of Nick Kyrgios spring to mind. The Australian never minced his words and condemned Sinner in every way imaginable. But opinions were also divided on other stars. Some branded Sinner a doping offender, others believed in the South Tyrolean's innocence. One man who belongs to the latter camp spoke out on Sunday about the world number one's ban.

The Norwegian who supports Sinner

Casper Ruud gave his perspective on the events following his UTS tournament victory in Nîmes, France. The Norwegian emphasized: "I always considered him innocent, and it was very unfortunate regarding the way the substance entered his system."

Ruud won in Nimes. © Social Media

Ruud continued: "Of course, it's a rare case, but it's certainly possible. It's tough to be suspended for three months when you're innocent. I never saw Jannik as someone who would intentionally take doping substances or cheat."

“I always considered him innocent.” Casper Ruud

He also spoke about the general difficulties faced by elite athletes: “We are extremely vulnerable because we are constantly exposed to many people and different places, a variety of foods and different countries…” To avoid risks, Ruud says he always travels with a supply of medication that he bought in Norway.