Jannik Sinner is not considered one of the most expressive characters in the tennis scene.
Nevertheless, the more reserved demeanor of the Italian world number one was clearly visible on his way to the US Open title.
Low-key celebrations and heightened awareness were the result of Sinner's involvement in a doping controversy that shook the tennis world to its core.
In the week before the final Grand Slam tournament of the season in New York, it was revealed that Sinner had failed anti-doping tests twice earlier this year.
Sinner, 23, was found to have low levels of Clostebol – a banned anabolic steroid – but that was the case An independent court found there was no fault or negligence.
“Obviously I had a very hard time enjoying certain moments,” Sinner said after beating Taylor Fritz Win the US Open on Sunday.
“My behavior or the way I ran on the court at certain tournaments before was also no longer the same as before. So anyone who knows me better knows that something is wrong.”
over the last two weeks he has tried to push the issue into the background. The rocky beginning has turned into a triumphant ending.
Nevertheless, the case has sparked much debate and many questions have not been resolved.
The World Anti-Doping Agency (Wada) then appealed the decision to absolve sinners of guilt.
The panel announced the decision 20 days after Sinner's triumph at the US Open, saying the independent tribunal's ruling was “incorrect under the current rules”.
For many people, a heavy cloud will continue to hang over Sinner's second Grand Slam victory.
Reputational damage cannot be easily shaken off.
British doubles player Tara Moore, who was also not accused of fault or negligence in a doping case, described the “disappearance” of her reputation in the 19 months she was banned from playing as she fought to clear her name.
Similar, British athlete Paula Radcliffe And Australian swimmer Ian Thorpe – superstar names in their field – felt “tarnished” by the false accusations of doping in big stories of their time.
Although Sinner has been cleared of any wrongdoing, he will never be free from the distrust and skepticism that remains in some circles.
“As with any player who tests positive, there will be a cloud and some doubt over him for the rest of his career,” said investigative journalist Edmund Willison Honest sports website, external specializes in sports doping stories.
“In any case, it will always be in the rear window.”
