**Jannik Sinner Returns to Tennis and Confirms Single Status Ahead of Italian Open**
Jannik Sinner has made his much-anticipated return to the tennis court following a three-month suspension due to a positive drug test. As he prepares for the Italian Open this week, the top-ranked men’s singles player has also clarified his relationship status, confirming that he is officially single. This announcement comes after an Italian publication released photos of him with Russian model Lara Leito last month, which seemed to indicate a split from fellow tennis pro Anna Kalinskaya.
During a press conference on Tuesday, Sinner expressed his excitement about returning to competitive play. “I’m very happy to be back here. It has been three very long months,” he stated. He shared that he spent quality time with family and friends during his break and focused on rigorous training, particularly in the gym, to prepare for his return to the court.
Addressing the media, Sinner preemptively confirmed his single status, stating, “I saw there is a lot of attention also kind of off the court, and I was also very surprised to see some pictures which, nothing serious, let’s say like this: I’m not in a relationship, so for whoever is asking, it’s all good.” Sinner and Kalinskaya were previously linked, with their relationship confirmed during the French Open in May 2024. The couple was seen sharing a kiss after Sinner’s victory at the U.S. Open in September.
The recent paparazzi photos and Sinner’s comments have put to rest any speculation about his relationship with Kalinskaya. Now back on the court, Sinner expressed his relief at returning to tennis after being suspended by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) for testing positive for a banned anabolic steroid. “I didn’t want to do it in the beginning, and also it was a bit not easy for me to accept it, because I know what really happened,” he explained. “But sometimes we have to choose the best in a very bad moment, and that’s what we did. So it’s all over now. So I’m happy to play tennis again.”
Sinner, 23, tested positive for low levels of clostebol, a banned anabolic steroid, in March 2024. Just eight days after the Indian Wells tournament, he tested positive again in an out-of-competition sample. According to the International Tennis Integrity Agency, Sinner attributed the positive tests to a massage he received from a trainer who had used an over-the-counter spray containing clostebol for a minor injury. While WADA accepted his no-fault explanation, they emphasized that athletes are responsible for their entourage’s actions, leading to the three-month suspension.
As Sinner gears up for the Italian Open, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how he performs after this challenging period.
**FAQ**
**Q: What led to Jannik Sinner’s suspension?**
A: Jannik Sinner was suspended for three months after testing positive for a banned anabolic steroid, clostebol, twice in 2024. He attributed the positive tests to a massage from a trainer who used a spray containing the substance.
