Laureus Academy withdraws Janik Sinner's Sportsman of the Year nomination amidst doping controversy

In a major development for Italian tennis star Janik Sinner, the Laureus Academy have made the decision to withdraw the 23-year-old Sportsman of the Year after his doping ban. Sinner, who had accepted the ban, had tested positive for the anabolic agent clostebol. 

The ban will come to an end on May 4. It is interesting to note that the Laureus World Sports Awards have been presented since the year 2000, and the nominees of this year’s awards will be announced on March 3 in Madrid.

Play VideoUnibots.com

"We have followed this case, the decisions of the relevant global bodies, and—while we note the extenuating circumstances involved—feel that the three-month ban renders the nomination ineligible. Jannik and his team have been informed," Laureus Academy Chairman Sean Fitzpatrick said in a statement.

It is interesting to note that Sinner had accepted a three-month ban from tennis in the early stages of February 2025. He had



admitted to partial responsibility for the team mistakes which had led to him being tested positive twice. The star's suspension will end on May 4, which would allow him to make a return well in time for the French Open. 

As for the reactions surrounding Sinner's ban, the tennis world was not welcoming of the suspension. It is interesting to note that Sinner's ban would mean that he would be able to play all four Grand Slams in the season. Legendary tennis star Novak Djokovic pointed out the same, and branded it as an example of favouritism. 

"It almost seems like you can influence the outcome if you are a top player and have access to the best lawyers. Sinner and Swiatek are innocent, it has been proven. Jannik will have a three-month suspension due to some mistakes and negligence of some members of his team, who are working on the tour. This is also something that I personally and many other players find strange,” Djokovic said at the Qatar Open recently.