Jack Draper Defends Jannik Sinner Amid Doping Ban Backlash: He Doesn’t Deserve the Hate

British tennis player Jack Draper has publicly voiced his support for Italian star Jannik Sinner, who is currently serving a doping suspension. Draper emphasized that Sinner’s character has been unfairly questioned and praised him as both a talented athlete and a genuinely good person. Despite the controversy, Draper insisted that the criticism aimed at his friend is undeserved and rooted more in misunderstanding than malice.

Sinner tested positive twice last year for the banned steroid Clostebol, leading to a three-month suspension. Originally, the International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) found no fault on Sinner’s part, citing a medicated spray used by his physiotherapist as the likely cause. However, the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) challenged that ruling, and after an appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport, Sinner agreed to the suspension from February 9 to May 4.

Speaking during the Madrid Open, Draper explained in an interview with BBC Sport and The Guardian that he had known Sinner since their junior days and never doubted his integrity. He described the incident as an honest mistake and said he believed Sinner had "zero idea" a banned substance had entered his body. Draper maintained that the situation was unfortunate but didn’t reflect who Sinner is as a person.

Sinner is set to return to competition just in time for the Italian Open on May 7, missing no Grand Slam tournaments during his ban. This detail has sparked criticism from some players and observers, who argue that the timing of the suspension was too convenient. Some believe the decision downplayed the offense and allowed Sinner’s career to avoid significant disruption.

Big names in tennis have not held back. Novak Djokovic suggested the case damaged the sport’s image and hinted at preferential treatment. British player Liam Broady echoed the sentiment, and Serena Williams commented that a harsher punishment would likely have been imposed had she been in Sinner's position. The perceived leniency has fueled ongoing debate about fairness and transparency in doping rulings.

In February, Sinner accepted responsibility for what happened, noting that WADA’s strict liability rules are in place to protect tennis. The ITIA has reiterated that it applies the same standards to all players, regardless of reputation or ranking. Since the suspension, Sinner has stayed relatively silent, focusing instead on preparing for his return to professional play.

Recently, Sinner reunited with Draper for training sessions in Monte Carlo. Draper praised Sinner’s current form and expressed excitement about having him back on the tour. Refusing to dwell on the controversy, Draper emphasized Sinner’s positive qualities, stating that his friend’s presence had been missed both on and off the court. As Sinner gears up for a possible strong run into the French Open, Draper hopes the tennis community will give him the chance to move forward.