Serena Williams says she would have faced 20-year ban if she failed drug test like Sinner
Tennis legend Serena Williams has opened up about the potential consequences she would have faced if she had tested positive for drugs in a manner similar to world No. 1 Jannik Sinner. According to Serena, she believes she would have been handed a 20-year ban.
Sinner, who is set to return to action at the Italian Open next month, was suspended for three months after twice testing positive for clostebol in March 2024. The Italian player explained that the banned substance entered his system during a massage, where his physio accidentally treated a cut on his finger with an over-the-counter spray containing the anabolic steroid.
Initially, the Tennis Integrity Agency did not impose a ban on Sinner. However, WADA (World Anti-Doping Agency) appealed the decision, eventually leading to a controversial settlement in February.
In an interview with Time Magazine, Serena expressed admiration for Sinner, saying: “Fantastic personality. I love the guy, I love his game. He’s great for the sport. I’ve been put down so much, I don’t want to bring anyone down. Men’s tennis needs him.”
But she also acknowledged the double standard that she believes exists in tennis:
“If I did that, I would have gotten 20 years. Let’s be honest. I would have had Grand Slams taken away from me.”
Serena’s comments shine a light on the disparity in how male and female athletes are treated when it comes to doping violations, a topic that has sparked much debate in the world of professional sports.
