Jannik Sinner enjoyed a triumphant return to the court at the Italian Open on Saturday, defeating Mariano Navone 6-3 6-4 in his first match since a three-month doping ban.
The world number one was met with a rapturous welcome from the home crowd, who chanted “Ole” as he wrote “Che bello” (How beautiful) on the camera lens.
“It has been amazing to go again on court after such a long time,” Sinner said, acknowledging the strong support.
His victory extends his winning streak to 22 matches, interrupted by the Wada-agreed suspension for two positive clostebol tests. While initially cleared, Wada deemed a longer ban “unduly harsh.”
Italian media had dubbed it “Jannik’s day,” and fans eagerly watched his practices. Sinner now faces Jesper de Jong in the next round as he prepares for the French Open.
