Liam Broady: Jannik Sinner’s Ban Timing Minimizes Career Impact
Liam Broady has weighed in on Jannik Sinner’s three-month doping ban, suggesting the timing was carefully planned to have minimal impact on the world number one’s career.
Sinner, who recently claimed his first Grand Slam title at the Australian Open, accepted the suspension after reaching a settlement over two positive drug tests from last year. His ban runs from February 9 to May 4—just in time for him to compete in the French Open, which kicks off on May 19.
Speaking to BBC Sport, Broady pointed out the convenient timing. “I think a lot of thought has gone into when the ban would happen, so it impacts Jannik’s career as little as possible. The ban ends just before the Rome Masters, his home country’s biggest tournament—ideal preparation for the French Open.”
What makes this case even more unusual, Broady noted, is that Sinner won’t lose ranking points or his world number one status. “It’s like banning a Premier League footballer during the offseason,” he said.
Sinner was cleared of intentional doping by an independent panel after testing positive for clostebol last March. While WADA initially pushed for a two-year suspension, a deal was struck acknowledging that the contamination was accidental and that he had no intention to cheat.
Broady, ranked 766th, wasn’t entirely convinced by the process. “It doesn’t seem like there’s much being lost from this ban,” he said. “Would another player be treated the same way? Would they be given the same dignity?”
He also highlighted how money plays a role in these cases, arguing that Sinner’s access to top legal representation likely influenced the outcome. “Most of us don’t have millions to fight these things,” Broady said, calling for a more level playing field.
The Professional Tennis Players Association (PTPA) is now stepping in to provide pro bono legal aid for players facing doping or corruption allegations, aiming to ensure fair treatment regardless of financial status.
