Jannik Sinner's rapid clearance following positive drug tests has ignited controversy over anti-doping practices. The World No.1 tennis player, set to compete in the US Open next week, was found to have tested positive for the banned anabolic steroid clostebol twice in March. The first test at the Indian Wells tournament on March 10 and a follow-up test eight days later both showed positive results.

Despite the positive tests, Sinner was suspended but later reinstated after an appeal. He claimed the positive results were due to contamination from a medical spray applied by his physiotherapist, who inadvertently spread the substance during treatment.

The International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) accepted his explanation, noting the clostebol levels were too low to enhance performance. This decision has sparked backlash from players like Nick Kyrgios and Liam Broady, who question the fairness and speed of the resolution compared to other doping cases.

Notably, similar controversies have surfaced in other sports. Former tennis star Simona Halep's ban was recently reduced from four years to nine months after the Court of Arbitration for Sport found no intentional wrongdoing. Comparatively, British player Tara Moore faced a 19-month suspension before being cleared, highlighting perceived inconsistencies.

Critics argue that higher-profile athletes receive preferential treatment, citing past cases like swimmer Sun Yang and sprinter Justin Gatlin, whose penalties were significantly reduced despite severe violations.

The recurrence of clostebol cases in Italy, often linked to Trofodermin, adds to the skepticism about the anti-doping system's integrity. With increasing scrutiny on doping rules and enforcement, there is a growing demand for a fair and transparent process to restore faith in the system.