Tennis star takes subtle jab at Jannik Sinner days before US Open begins | Tennis | Sport

Tommy Paul made a subtle hint at Jannik Sinner’s two failed drugs tests by sharing a picture of his physiotherapist’s gloves on social media. Sinner has been cleared of wrongdoing despite twice testing positive for the banned substance clostebol.

The Italian successfully argued that the positive tests, which were administered in March, were caused by contamination through his physio. An independent tribunal ruled that the 23-year-old bore “no fault or negligence”.

Sinner’s argument hinged on his fitness trainer Umberto Ferrara’s purchase of Trofodermin, an over-the-counter spray used to heal cuts. Sinner’s physio, Giacomo Naldi, then used the spray – which is widely available in Italy – to heal a wound he suffered while Sinner was competing at Indian Wells.

Naldi then continued to treat Sinner – who had no knowledge of Naldi’s use of the spray – without wearing gloves. The World No 1 was inadvertently contaminated via a cut on his leg.

But several players have now waded in on the episode, with some – including Nick Kyrgios – insisting that a ban would have been appropriate. Others have poked fun at the slightly bizarre way in which Sinner was contaminated.

American star Paul made a reference to Sinner’s ordeal on his Instagram story. The 27-year-old welcomed back his physio Sebastian Cozzarin – although front and centre in the photo were Cozzarin’s black gloves.

Some players have been critical of the leniency shown towards Sinner. “Can’t imagine what every other player that got banned for contaminated substances is feeling right now,” wrote Denis Shapovalov.

Meanwhile, the ATP said: “We are encouraged that no fault or negligence has been found on Jannik Sinner’s part. We would also like to acknowledge the robustness of the investigation process and independent evaluation of the facts under the Tennis Anti-Doping Programme (TADP), which has allowed him to continue competing.

“This has been a challenging matter for Jannik and his team, and underscores the need for players and their entourages to take utmost care in the use of products or treatments. Integrity is paramount in our sport.”

Sinner, who always maintained his innocence, said the amount of clostebol found in his system was less than a billionth of a gram.

He said in a statement on social media: “I will now put this challenging and deeply unfortunate period behind me. I will continue to do everything I can to ensure I continue to comply with the ITIA’s anti-doping programme and I have a team around me that are meticulous in their own compliance.”