Sinner’s first press conference after his two clostebol positives: “Very difficult”

In New Yorkwhere he will join in the near future US Openthe fourth and last grand slam of time, Jannik Sinner appeared in a press conference for the first time after the storm that was released by his two positive tests for clostebol, a steroid that can be used to increase muscle mass found in two anti-doping controls carried out in March.

The current world No. 1 is cleared of fault or negligence by accepting the Italian explanations. International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA): The offender tested positive after his physical therapist Giacomo Naldi He applied an over-the-counter spray to the hand wound before massaging Sinner. This drug is given to Naldi by a physical trainer Umberto Ferrara. Sinner reveals that they both left his work team.

“They have been a big part of my career. We have done an incredible job and we have achieved a lot of success. Now, because of these mistakes, I am not very confident to continue with them. I have waited for the last few months. for in the result and the only thing I need Now is a bit of clean air,” explained Sinner after being cleared of doping suspicions that could lead to a suspension of up to four years.

“It’s a very difficult moment for me and my team. The preparation for the US Open has not been perfect due to some circumstances,” said Sinner, who lost points and prize money in March in Indian Wells Masters 1,000.

Jannik repeatedly reiterated his innocence and said he was able to continue playing because his team quickly identified the source of the contamination. “I’m happy that it’s finally over. We knew where the substance was and how it got to my body, and that was very important to let the authorities know, who understood immediately,” explained Sinner.

“I always remind myself that I have done nothing wrong. I respect the anti-doping rules and will always respect them. In my mind I know I have done nothing wrong. Anyone who knows me knows that I have not and never will -will not do anything that goes against the rules As for reputation, we’ll see in the future, because I can’t really control it,” answered No. 1.

“As this matter becomes public, some things may change about my image, but anyone who knows me knows that I have not done and will never do anything against the rules. I also know who my friend and who doesn’t. My friends know that I would never take something like that and they are still by my side,” insisted Jannik.

The sinner received strong criticism even from other tennis players for the double standard that, in their opinion, was placed in training in the case of the Italian. Jannik said he received the same treatment as anyone else. “Every player who tests positive has to go through the same process. There are no shortcuts, there are no different treatments, everyone has the same process,” said the current Australian Open champion.

“Sometimes I understand the frustration of other players, but maybe because they are suspended and they don’t know where the substance comes from. The main reason is where it comes from and how it goes into your own body. We know immediately. ,” he said. Sinner.

“It wasn’t all perfect before a Grand Slam, but in my head I knew I didn’t do anything wrong. I had to play it out for months in my head, but I just reminded myself that I didn’t. do something anything wrong.” “I have always respected and will respect the anti-doping rules,” insisted the Italian, who will debut on Tuesday at the US Open against American Mackenzie McDonald.