World number one Jannik Sinner has reappointed fitness coach Umberto Ferrara, with whom he parted ways following an investigation into his positive tests for a banned substance. Ferrara and physiotherapist Giacomo Naldi left the Italian's team last August, five months after Sinner returned two positive tests for clostebol.

Continuity and Performance

A statement from Sinner's team highlighted the importance of Ferrara's role in his development: "Umberto has played an important role in Jannik's development to date, and his return reflects a renewed focus on continuity and performance at the highest level." The decision aligns with Sinner's management team as part of ongoing preparations for upcoming tournaments, including the Cincinnati Open and US Open.

Doping Controversy

Sinner was cleared by an independent tribunal of any wrongdoing last August, but the World Anti-Doping Agency (Wada) appealed against the panel's ruling that he "bore no fault or negligence." The 23-year-old accepted a three-month ban in February after reaching a settlement with Wada. Wada stated that Sinner did not intend to cheat but bore responsibility for "the entourage's negligence."

Clostebol Incident

Sinner explained that the substance clostebol, which can increase muscle mass, entered his system when Naldi applied an over-the-counter spray to treat a cut on his hand. Ferrara provided the spray to Naldi for personal use and warned him not to use it on Sinner.

Coaching Changes

After the departures of Ferrara and Naldi, Sinner appointed fitness coach Marco Panichi and physiotherapist Ulises Badio in September. However, he parted ways with them shortly before this year's Wimbledon. Sinner made his return at the Italian Open in May and lost the French Open final to Carlos Alcaraz in a five-set thriller in June, before beating him in the Wimbledon final this month to win his fourth Grand Slam.

Ferrara's Return

Sources close to Sinner revealed that he feels Ferrara, who has been working with Matteo Berrettini, has learned from his mistakes. Ferrara, with a degree in pharmaceutical technology, was previously chosen by Sinner to advise him on anti-doping issues. The initial tribunal found that Ferrara provided the spray to Naldi with a warning but knew it contained a prohibited substance.

Sinner's Trust

In reaching a settlement with Sinner, Wada stated that Sinner tested positive due to the "negligence of members of his entourage," and under its code, this is a negligence an athlete bears responsibility for. Sinner believes he can trust Ferrara again and feels that reintroducing a familiar face is essential to maintaining his place at the top of the game.