Umberto Ferrara Speaks Out on Doping Scandal Involving Jannik Sinner
Umberto Ferrara, the former physical trainer of tennis sensation Jannik Sinner, has broken his silence on the recent doping scandal that rocked the tennis world. Ferrara, who was implicated in the controversy, has vehemently denied any wrongdoing and instead shifted the blame onto Sinner’s ex-physiotherapist, Giacomo Naldi.
Following an investigation by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA), Sinner accepted a three-month suspension after it was discovered that he had unknowingly come into contact with the banned substance clostebol. The source of contamination was traced back to Naldi, who had been administering the substance without proper precautions.
In an exclusive interview with Gazzetta dello Sport, Ferrara revealed that he had been using clostebol spray for a medical condition and had advised Naldi to use it on Sinner for a minor injury. However, he made it clear that he had warned Naldi about the substance’s prohibited status and had instructed him to use it only in a controlled environment.
Despite his precautions, Ferrara claimed that Naldi failed to follow protocols, leading to the inadvertent contamination of Sinner. Reflecting on the incident, Ferrara expressed regret over the handling of the situation but maintained his innocence in the matter.
“I have been unfairly targeted in this ordeal due to the negligence of others,” Ferrara stated.
Since parting ways with Sinner, Ferrara has found a new coaching role with Italian tennis star Matteo Berrettini. Meanwhile, Sinner is gearing up for his return to the court after serving his suspension, with his sights set on the upcoming French Open.
Set to make his comeback at the Italian Open in Rome before heading to Paris for the French Open, Sinner will be looking to reclaim his spot among the elite players in the sport. With his past successes at the US and Australian Open, the young Italian is poised to make a strong statement on his return.
