Jannik Sinner has officially resumed training as he prepares for his highly anticipated return to competitive tennis following a three-month suspension. The world No. 1 had accepted a temporary ban in February as part of a resolution agreement with the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA), and will make his comeback at the Italian Open next month.
Return to official training
As of April 13, Sinner was cleared to engage in “official training activity,” marking the end of suspension that barred him from using public facilities or practicing with professional players. Previously confined to private courts and non-professional sparring partners, the 23-year-old has now returned to full training, hitting the clay courts this week in preparation for his return to tour action.
Sinner, who resides in Monaco, made his way to the Monte-Carlo Country Club—recent host of the Monte-Carlo Masters—to begin his official training. Reports suggest he sparred with fellow Italian and former Wimbledon finalist Matteo Berrettini earlier in the week, although no footage of that session has surfaced.
Draper joins as sparring partner
Most notably, Sinner was seen practicing in Beaulieu-sur-Mer alongside British No. 1 Jack Draper. The two were filmed rallying at the Tennis Club de Beaulieu, where an ITF Junior tournament is currently underway.
"Look who’s here!” read the caption on a video shared by the tournament’s official social media account, showing the world No. 1 training with Draper.
Sinner also took a moment to send a message to the young competitors:
Hello everyone, I wish all the players here in the ITF Beaulieu best of luck, enjoy the semis tomorrow, he said in a video.
Strong support from Draper
Draper and Sinner share a close friendship off the court. They've previously teamed up in doubles and even bonded over a pasta-cooking session. Draper was vocal in his support during Sinner’s suspension.
Jannik is a good friend and I know that with this whole thing, I am sure he wouldn’t have done anything intentionally, Draper told Sky Sports.
He is obviously banned now for a few months. I don’t think that’s good for tennis... but you know he will be back shortly and I wish him all the best.
Sinner’s suspension officially ends on May 4, with his return scheduled for the Italian Open in Rome.