Umberto Ferrara took a moment to express gratitude to Jannik Sinner after the 24-year-old agreed to give him another chance and return him to the team after a doping controversy.
As you probably know, the majority of the blame for Sinner's two failed doping tests were placed on Ferrara and physio Giacomo Naldi. After the news of the world No. 2 failing two doping tests in the spring of 2024 came to light, it was reported that Ferrara provided Naldi with a contaminated spray, which the physio then used on the four-time Grand Slam champion. The Italian decided to dismiss both Ferrara and Naldi after his doping case was made public.
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While the ITIA accepted that Sinner didn't knowingly or intentionally take a banned substance, the WADA lodged an appeal into the ITIA's ruling. It was resolved with the Italian tennis star settling on a three-month doping ban with the WADA, which started in February and concluded in May.
Shortly after winning his first Wimbledon title, Sinner re-hired Ferrara - who started the 2025 season working with Matteo Berrettini.
The 24-year-old Italian has appeared in seven tournaments since returning his old fitness training - made six finals and won four titles (Beijing, Vienna, Paris Masters, ATP Finals).
Ferrara: Thanks to Sinner for the trust and the beauty of this common path
Ive been in sports for many years but Ill never stop being amazed at how beautiful it is. Sport is commitment, dedication, sacrifice; its emotion, smiles, tears; its victory and defeat, joy and disappointment; its comparison with oneself and others; its a desire to improve, analytical skills, confidence in work; its suffering in the dark moments that leave you inside a pain that is hard to digest, but it is also believing in the possibility of getting up and starting again with enthusiasm," Ferrara wrote on Instagram.
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Its hard to condense it all into one post. This season (opened with the collaboration with Matteo [Berrettini], who I thank from the bottom of my heart) leaves me with so many unforgettable moments, which I was lucky enough to share with a fantastic team. Thanks to all of them but, above all, thanks to Jannik for the trust and the beauty of this common path.
When Sinner returned Ferrara to his team, it drew attention and certain criticism. However, it is safe to say that the fitness coach has done a pretty solid job since returning to his role in the Italian's team.
