Casper Ruud believes those who understand the processes in doping cases realize Jannik Sinner did not get favorable treatment because of his status as the world's No. 1.
It has been over three weeks since it was revealed Sinner tested positive for the banned substance clostebol on two occasions during the Indian Wells Open. The news shocked tennis fans worldwide.
Sinner was cleared of wrongdoing and avoided a ban. However, his prize money and ranking points from the tournament were stripped, reducing his lead as the world's No. 1 slightly.
Some fans and players were enraged about the case being kept private for five months and that Sinner was allowed to keep playing while the investigation was ongoing, believing the Italian was given favorable treatment compared to other accused players.
Denis Shapovalov was one of the players who made that claim. In addition, Nick Kyrgios said Sinner should receive a two-year ban regardless of whether he was aware of the substance being in his system.
However, Sinner received support from other figures. Andy Murray's former coach, Mark Petchey, said no one case is ever the same and that the world No. 1 had done nothing wrong during the investigation.
Ruud has become one of the most high-profile players to speak in support of Sinner. The three-time Grand Slam runner-up said those who have analyzed the case know the US Open champion was not treated favorably.
“If you have read the documents and understand the process in this type of case, then you understand that there is no discrimination here. What Sinner has done well, to defend himself, is that he managed to find an explanation within 15 days after testing positive. He understood quite quickly where it came from.”
How quickly Sinner realized where the contamination had taken place is a fact many of his critics fail to mention. That would have supported any player, not just Sinner, because he is the world No. 1.
Ruud said not many accused athletes can quickly explain where the contamination came from, which undoubtedly worked in Sinner's favor during the incident's investigation.
“There are not many athletes who manage to come up with an explanation within 15 days, but Jannik has managed it. It speaks in his favor that he quickly found out where the substance came from and that he has a reasonable explanation.”
Sinner's case can be contrasted with Simona Halep's. The Romanian had no idea what led to her positive test, which complicated matters much more, leading to an extended saga.
After his US Open triumph, the Italian hopes to move on from the incident and focus on remaining at the top of the sport. However, the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) is still investigating the case, meaning he cannot fully relax.
Sinner maintained all along that he has a clear conscience, though. If true, the 23-year-old should not be overly worried about WADA's investigation and can focus on preparing for the upcoming Asian swing.
0 Comments