The doping case involving Jannik Sinner has once again sparked controversy, as the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) has decided to appeal the decision made by the International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) to clear the Italian player. In response to this news, Carlos Alcaraz expressed his sympathy for Sinner, stating that it is “not a good sign for tennis.”

Sinner, who currently holds the World No. 1 ranking, was previously cleared of any wrongdoing by the ITIA after testing positive for clostebol earlier in the year. However, with WADA now appealing the decision, the case has been reignited.

Speaking at the China Open, Alcaraz commented on the situation, saying, “It is difficult for him. I know everyone is talking about it, the news is talking about it. But anyway, the game and the level that he’s playing with everything he’s been through right now, it’s insane. I hope that this thing… will be aside soon and he’s able to stay focused on what he loves, and that is playing tennis, trying to keep going.”

Expressing concern for the impact this case may have on the sport, Alcaraz added, “I think for tennis it’s not really good, not really a good sign for tennis in general. I thought it was closed. This month I didn’t know what happened exactly. I just saw the news and it surprised me a little bit. Okay, what’s going on, that the case is open again? I don’t know how it’s going to be the next months. For sure, to tennis, not a good sign.”

Despite the looming appeal, Sinner and Alcaraz are both focused on their upcoming matches at the China Open, with a potential final showdown between the two players on the horizon. Sinner is set to face Jiri Lehecka in the quarter-finals, while Alcaraz will take on Karen Khachanov.

Fans can catch all the top tennis action live on Eurosport and discovery+. Stay tuned for updates on the ATP Beijing tournament, as Sinner battles back from a set down to secure a spot in the quarter-finals.