Novak Djokovic Calls for Standardized Tennis Doping Protocols

In June, Jannik Sinner overtook Novak Djokovic as the world number one.

Novak Djokovic has called for “clear protocols” and “standardized approaches” in tennis doping cases following Jannik Sinner’s recent controversy. Sinner, the world number one, tested positive for clostebol, a banned steroid, in March. However, a tribunal cleared him of fault, and he avoided a ban. The International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) found that Sinner’s positive test resulted from accidental contamination by his physiotherapist, Giacomo Naldi.

Naldi had used an over-the-counter spray before treating Sinner. After the tribunal lifted the provisional suspension on appeal, Sinner resumed play. Before the US Open, Djokovic expressed concerns about the inconsistency in handling such cases. He noted that although Sinner’s case resolved quickly, the process took several months from the initial positive test to the final decision.

Novak Djokovic criticized the lack of standardized protocols, believing they contribute to player frustration and doubts about fairness. Players like Nick Kyrgios, Liam Broady and Denis Shapovalov criticized the decision not to penalize Sinner on social media. Djokovic pointed out that similar cases involving other players had not received the same leniency, suggesting disparities in case management.

He questioned whether financial resources might affect case outcomes and urged a collective review of the system to ensure equitable treatment for all players, regardless of their ranking or status. Djokovic hopes the governing bodies will use this case to improve consistency in doping protocols.