Jannik Sinner‘s facing a three-month ban, which sounds rough, but it’s actually looking like a strategic break. Over a week ago, WADA confirmed in an official statement that “it has entered into a case resolution agreement” with the three-time Major winner. As a result, Sinner accepted to stay away from competing in ATP tours for 90 days. Initially, he was set to appear in front of the CAS for a hearing – but not anymore. While you may think he will stay away from tennis action, it’s not going to be the case at all. Turns out, his team has already planned how to use this unofficial ‘off-season’.

In an interaction with SkySports, Sinner’s athletic trainer Marco Panichi shared his thoughts on the ban situation. To him, it seems nothing less than a golden chance for the 2024 ATP Finals winner. Why? Citing the long duration of three months, he said, “Having so much time allows us to deeply address characteristics and conditions we want to improve. Knowing we can dedicate significant time to certain aspects is a major boost,” reported Tennis Tonic on February 26.

Basically, he said they’re treating this like he’s training for track and field, with a big focus on “agility, endurance, and explosive strength”. Focusing on these aspects isn’t possible in the middle of a busy schedule. But now, it won’t be an issue. “This time allows us to refine preparation, which is a significant motivational boost.” Panichi said it’s like a ‘new experience’ that’ll help Sinner, you know, both in his head and his body.

It’s all possible because he’s allowed to engage in practice sessions – but only with his team. Last week, it was confirmed that the Italian can train privately “as long as he does not do so in a place connected to a national association, the ATP, the ITF, the WTA, the Grand Slams or an event covered by our regulations.” It appears as if there’s no ban at all on him. And guess what?

There’s one more thing he won’t be away from – a Slam opportunity!

Jannik Sinner to not miss a Slam despite 90-day suspension

Following the news of his ban, Sinner was quite relieved. But why? Explaining the reason in a statement, shared by his lawyers, he revealed, “This case had been hanging over me for nearly a year and the process still had a long time to run with a decision, maybe only at the end of the year,” reported BBC on February 15.

“I have always accepted that I am responsible for my team and realize Wada’s strict rules are an important protection for the sport I love. On that basis, I have accepted Wada’s offer to resolve these proceedings on the basis of a three-month sanction.”

For the uninitiated, Jannik Sinner’s ban is effective from February 9 to May 4. Apart from his private training sessions, he’s free to resume official training from April 13. During the period of suspension, he will miss out on the following ATP events: the Qatar Open, BNP Paribas Open, Miami Open, Rolex Monte-Carlo Masters, and Madrid Open. Owing to which, Sinner will lose 1,600 ranking points. But it shouldn’t bother him too much. He will still have enough points to maintain his No.1 position upon return.

When he comes back, the World No.1 will be eligible to enter his home event in Italy. It will commence on May 7. Plus, he will be able to compete at this season’s second major – the French Open – as well. The tournament will begin on May 25. In short, he can continue his quest to win a second Slam in 2025 after clinching the Australian Open trophy in January.

Do you think Sinner will make a dominating return once the suspension gets over? Let us know in the comments below?