Sinner disappointed with WADA appeal which could lead to ban

World number one Jannik Sinner has expressed disappointment that the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) is seeking a ban of up to two years for him in connection with failed doping tests over which he was originally not banned.

WADA said on Saturday that it has lodged an appeal at the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) to overturn a ruling from the International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA).

"Obviously I'm very disappointed and also surprised of this appeal," the BBC quoted Sinner as saying after beating Roman Safiullin 3-6, 6-2, 6-3 at the China Open in Beijing on Saturday.

He said he was aware of the appeal for several days, with WADA saying it was formally lodged on Thursday.

Positive tests from March

The ITIA revealed in August shortly before the US Open, which Sinner went on to win, that the Italian tested positive twice in March for low levels of the anabolic agent clostebol, which can build muscle mass.

The positive tests came a few weeks after his first grand slam title at the Australian Open.

Sinner successfully appealed against a provisional suspension and was then absolved of fault and negligence.

The ITIA accepted his explanation that the substance had accidentally entered his system via an over-the-counter product containing the banned substance his physiotherapist had used to treat a small wound on his hand.

WADA contests 'no fault or negligence'

But WADA said it believes "the finding of 'no fault or negligence'
was not correct under the applicable rules.

"WADA is seeking a period of ineligibility of between one and two years.

"WADA is not seeking a disqualification of any results, save that which has already been imposed by the tribunal of first instance."

Sinner was stripped of his ranking points and prize money because one of the positive tests came at the Indian Wells Masters tournament, where he reached the semi-finals.

WADA said it would not comment further on the issue. The CAS is yet to announce a date for a hearing.