Behind the Racket: Jannik Sinner’s Controversies On And Off The Court
Jannik Sinner is known for his calm demeanor on the court, but that hasn’t kept him from controversy. While many experts have predicted his rise to world number one, his journey hasn’t been without its bumps. Here’s a look at the key controversies surrounding the Italian tennis star.
Jannik Sinner tested positive for banned substances twice but was allowed to continue playing on the tour
Sinner tested positive for low levels of clostebol, an anabolic steroid that is known to enhance performance and is banned on the tennis tour. He was provisionally suspended but allowed to compete during his appeal.
Sinner claimed that his clostebol contamination came from his then-physiotherapist, Giacomo Naldi. Sinner’s fitness coach Umberto Ferrara, had purchased an over-the-counter spray containing the substance, which Naldi had used on himself to treat a minor wound before giving Sinner a massage.
After his doping trial ended, Sinner fired both Naldi and Ferrara. Many tennis players criticized the situation, claiming Sinner received special treatment by being allowed to continue competing during the investigation. They pointed out that most other players, especially those with lower rankings, are usually banned from the tour, losing both prize money and important ranking points.
Sinner prefers carrots over bananas
While most tennis players snack on bananas during matches, Jannik Sinner stands out by choosing carrots instead. It may seem funny and even a bit unusual, but carrots have become a defining feature of his career.
A group of passionate Italian fans, known as the “Carota Boys,” proudly show their support by dressing in orange from head to toe, embodying Sinner’s unique choice. These six dedicated fans have become a staple at his matches, cheering him on in their signature carrot costumes.
Jannik Sinner’s relationship with Anna Kalinskaya
Jannik Sinner is currently dating fellow tennis player Anna Kalinskaya, who had previously been in a relationship with Nick Kyrgios. Kalinskaya has been a loyal supporter, often spotted in the stands cheering for Sinner during his matches.
However, controversy arose when Kyrgios made a misogynistic comment, known as “Second Serve,” which sparked backlash among Sinner’s fans and the broader tennis community. Despite the uproar, Sinner chose not to engage with the situation, remaining focused on his game and refusing to address the incident publicly.