Novak Djokovic and Roger Federer weigh in on Jannik Sinner's controversial drug test ruling

Tennis stars Novak Djokovic and Roger Federer have expressed their concerns over the sport's anti-doping regulations following an incident involving Jannik Sinner, who avoided a ban despite failing two steroid tests.

The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) challenges the decision after an independent tribunal found him not liable for the incidents back in March. Sinner, fresh off his US Open victory, was in the clear after an independent tribunal on August 20 absolved him of any fault following two positive tests for an anabolic steroid. According to the panel, the substance entered his system inadvertently during a physio session where a steroidal spray was used to treat a cut on his finger.

However, with WADA seeking a punitive response, they've taken it up with the Court of Arbitration for Sport, aiming for a suspension lasting between one to two years. In response to WADA's actions, a statement from the organisation declared: "It is WADA's view that 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."

While he is currently partaking in the China Open, Sinner has shared his "disappointment and surprise" over the appeal by WADA. Nonetheless, whispers of favourable treatment have been circulating due to the initial ruling which let the top-ranked Italian continue his professional tennis pursuits.

Federer has voiced his understanding of the concerns surrounding the treatment of certain players in tennis. Speaking on the Today Show, he expressed: "I understand the frustration of: Has he been treated the same as others? And I think this is where it comes down to. We all trust pretty much at the end, he didn't do anything."