By Richard Pagliaro | @TennisNow | Thursday, February 27, 2025
Photo credit: Matthew Calvis
Jannik Sinner has faced a setback at the Laureus World Sports Awards.
In a surprising announcement today, the Laureus Academy confirmed the removal of World No. 1 Sinner’s nomination for World Sportsman of the Year.
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The Academy revealed that Sinner’s nomination was withdrawn following his acceptance of a three-month suspension to resolve a doping inquiry by WADA.
Sinner had faced two positive drug tests last March but managed to appeal his provisional suspension, claiming unexpected contamination.
“After careful deliberation by the Laureus Academy, we have decided to withdraw Jannik Sinner’s nomination for this year’s award,” stated Laureus Awards chairman, Sean Fitzpatrick. “We acknowledge the unique circumstances; however, we believe the three-month ban affects his eligibility.”
“Jannik and his team have been duly notified.”
For more details, check out the complete Laureus World Sports Awards statement here.
Sinner’s three-month suspension, effective from February 9 through May 4, 2025, was confirmed by the World Anti-Doping Agency two weeks ago.
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According to the settlement terms, Sinner can resume official training on April 13, pending the completion of his suspension.
In a personal statement, Sinner expressed his acceptance of the terms: “This case has been a significant burden for nearly a year, and while the resolution may take longer, I’m committed to the integrity of the sport I cherish.”
Last March, Sinner’s low levels of the banned steroid clostebol were reported by the International Tennis Integrity Agency just before the US Open. Despite this, he was allowed to compete after an independent tribunal found him not at fault for the contamination.
