Betting Markets Shift Following Sinner’s Doping Ban

The tennis betting landscape for the 2025 Grand Slam season has been shaken after world No.1 Jannik Sinner was handed a three-month suspension following a positive test for the banned substance clostebol in March 2024.

The Italian reached a settlement with the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA), resulting in an immediate suspension that will keep him off the court until May 4. Before the ban, Sinner was among the favorites for both the French Open and Wimbledon, but the top online sportsbooks have now adjusted his odds significantly.

Carlos Alcaraz has taken over as the favorite for the French Open, sitting at $1.50, while Sinner’s odds have drifted to $3.75. The Wimbledon betting markets have also reacted, with Alcaraz listed at $2.20 at Bet365, ahead of Sinner at $2.62.

Despite missing a key portion of the season, Sinner remains the frontrunner for the US Open, with odds of $2.75, narrowly ahead of Alcaraz at $3.00.

Players React to Sinner’s Suspension

The tennis world has been vocal about Sinner’s ban, with prominent players questioning the fairness of the decision.

Nick Kyrgios expressed skepticism over the settlement, pointing out that Sinner faced no loss of titles or prize money, stating on X, “Guilty or not? Sad day for tennis. Fairness in tennis does not exist.”

Liam Broady was also taken aback by the process, commenting, “Didn’t realize you could reach a settlement regarding a doping ban.”

Former British No.1 Tim Henman shared his concerns over the system’s loopholes, saying, “When you’re dealing with drugs in sport, it has to be black and white. This just seems a little too convenient.”

Meanwhile, Swiss veteran Stan Wawrinka bluntly stated, “I don’t believe in a clean sport anymore.”

WADA and Sinner Respond

In its official statement, WADA clarified that Sinner did not intentionally cheat and that his exposure to clostebol was unintentional. However, the organization emphasized that athletes are ultimately responsible for their team’s actions.

Sinner accepted the punishment and acknowledged WADA’s stringent regulations, saying, “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.”

With Sinner set to return just in time for the Italian Open, all eyes will be on how his performance—and the betting markets—adjust ahead of the season’s biggest tournaments.