New Delhi: World No. 1 Jannik Sinner made a much-anticipated return to tennis as he stepped onto the courts of the Italian Open on Monday (May 5), greeted warmly by a 5,000-strong crowd during his practice session. The 23-year-old Italian star, who has spent the last three months serving a doping suspension, is now looking to rebuild momentum just in time for the French Open.
The 23-year-old was overwhelmed by the welcome he got at his home tournament. He said, “I don’t know. Honestly, I think I’m a simple 23-year-old kid. I’m good at playing tennis, but I’m not changing the world. Being here in Rome and playing in front of so many people is a big deal.”
Sinner hails from a small town with just 2,000 residents, which made the moment feel even more surreal for him. His return has captured attention not just because of his ranking but also due to the circumstances around his ban.
Jannik Sinner steps on court for his first practice in Rome.
So much love from the crowd.
Return of the King.
🇮🇹🦊
— The Tennis Letter (@TheTennisLetter) May 5, 2025
Sinner’s suspension began on February 9 shortly after he defended his Australian Open title. The ban was handed down after a banned substance was found in his system, something Sinner claimed was unknowingly administered by his physio. The International Tennis Integrity Agency accepted his explanation, although the World Anti-Doping Agency initially pushed for a one-year ban. Eventually, both sides settled on a reduced three-month penalty, which has finally concluded on May 4.
Reflecting on the time away
Speaking about his time off the court, Sinner said he initially struggled to adjust. “At the start, I was a bit confused because I didn’t know exactly what I wanted to do,” he admitted. “But then I went home and stayed with my family. I came to understand that what’s important to me is the people by my side. They give you the strength to move forward.”
When will Sinner play his first match?
Sinner will play his first match of the tournament. Sinner will play his first match in the Round of 64 on Saturday, May 10. The Italian star was on a 21-match winning streak with his last defeat coming in the China Open final last season against Carlos Alcaraz. With the French Open right around the corner, the young champion is focused on regaining his rhythm and silencing doubts with his game.
Jannik Sinner returns at Italian Open after a doping ban, aiming to regain top form ahead of the French Open amid strong support from home fans in Rome. Tennis Sports News: Latest Cricket News, Cricket Live Score, Sports Breaking News from Sports Today
