Tim Henman hails Jannik Sinner’s mental resilience amid doping controversy

Former British No.1 Tim Henman has lauded Jannik Sinner’s mental resilience amid the ongoing doping scandal. Sinner, on Sunday (26th January), defended his Australian Open title after beating Alexander Zverev in straight sets at the Rod Laver Arena in Melbourne.

This was Italian’s third Major title as he continues to impress on the tour. Sinner was once again able to block the outside noise and the pressure to go all the way in the Happy Slam despite his doping controversy being not yet solved.

CAS has set April 16 and 17 2025 as the date for the WADA appeal into Sinner’s case.

“He is clearly the best player in the world right now, but we need this dark cloud cleared up,” Henman said on Sports Agents podcast, referencing the Court of Arbitration for Sport hearing set for April.

Henman highlighted how doping testing in tennis is strict as players are regularly tested.

“I think drug testing in tennis is extremely diligent. They are tested all the time. And for me, I don’t think in any way, shape, or form that any of these athletes were trying to cheat,” he said. “I think they are extraordinary cases. But it does highlight if there’s something illegal in your body, you’re going to get caught.”

The Brit hailed Sinner’s ability to perform despite all the scrutiny in his doping case.

“It’s amazing that he has shown such resilience mentally,” he said. “But, you know, for tennis fans and for all of us, I think we want to get the conclusion, and hopefully that will be in April.”

On the other hand, former British No.1 Laura Robson also opened up on the ongoing controversy.

“He was able to present evidence within 48 hours, which a lot of people aren’t,” Robson noted. “He’d done everything that was asked of him.”