Jannik Sinner Returns Strong at Italian Open After Suspension

ROME (AP) — Jannik Sinner returned to the tennis court on May 12, 2025, after a three-month doping ban, defeating Dutch qualifier Jesper De Jong 6-4, 6-2 at the Italian Open. Playing in front of a supportive home crowd at the Foro Italico, Sinner showed moments of brilliance despite a few early lapses.

Initially, Sinner raced to a 4-1 lead in the first set, but dropped two service games, allowing De Jong to level the score at 4-4. “I felt like I started the match very well and then I had a big drop,” Sinner said. “I tried to understand what was going on. Then fortunately I broke him on 4-all again, which then gave me the confidence to continue.”

This victory marks Sinner’s return to competitive action after three months, following a settlement with the World Anti-Doping Agency due to two positive tests in 2024. During the match, he displayed his powerful groundstrokes and strong serve, extending his winning streak to 23 matches.

As the match progressed, the atmosphere at the Foro Italico became electric, with fans chanting “Vai Jannik” (“Go Jannik”). For Sinner, the support was uplifting. “It’s good to have him back,” said 12th-ranked Alex de Minaur after his own match. “He’s such a big figure in the sport.”

Next, Sinner will face 17th-seeded Francisco Cerundolo, who eliminated Austrian qualifier Dominic Thiem in the earlier rounds. Sinner shared his thoughts on the upcoming challenge, recalling his previous loss to Cerundolo in the 2023 Italian Open round of 16. “It’s going to be tough. For sure I have to raise my level if I want to play even. I’m trying to understand where my game is so it’s going to be a good challenge, good test for me,” he said.

Interestingly, Sinner’s return is welcomed by fans and professionals alike, who expressed mixed feelings about his suspension. Many note that he came back just in time for the Italian Open, a significant warmup before the French Open starting on May 25.

De Jong, meanwhile, received medical attention for a wrist injury during the match but returned to complete the game. “The crowd was incredible,” Sinner recounted. “They always give me strength to continue even in tough times.”