Sinner ban unfair, nice to see him again says Paolini

Italian tennis star Jasmine Paolini has spoken out following the surprise return of Jannik Sinner, who’s back on tour after a short, controversial suspension left fans—and fellow players—scratching their heads. “It felt unfair from the start,” Paolini said, referring to the now-infamous disciplinary action taken against Sinner last month. “You never want to see a player like Jannik sidelined for something so unclear.”

Sinner, currently one of Italy’s brightest tennis hopes and a top-5 staple, was handed a temporary ban by the ATP for what was cryptically described as a “code of conduct violation.” Translation? No one really knows. The details remain frustratingly vague, with rumors ranging from locker room spats to minor sponsorship disputes. And while fans were left piecing together theories like a Netflix docu-series, Sinner quietly served his suspension—graciously silent, as always.

Now, he’s back—and if Paolini’s reaction is anything to go by, he’s been missed. “He’s such a calm, professional presence,” she added. “Seeing him back brings good energy to the locker room—and he’s still hitting the ball like a dream.”

Sinner returned to court this week in Rome, greeted with warm applause and perhaps a little extra fire in his eyes. The tennis world may never get the full story, but one thing’s certain: if this was meant to rattle him, it didn’t. If anything, it’s lit a spark.

Italy’s golden boy is back. And he’s got a point to prove.