The International Tennis Federation (ITF) has named Jannik Sinner and Iga Swiatek as its World Champions for 2024, recognizing their remarkable performances at Grand Slam tournaments and other premier events. However, both athletes’ stellar seasons have been overshadowed by doping controversies that continue to hang over their achievements.
Jannik Sinner: A season of triumph and turmoil
World No. 1 Jannik Sinner had a season to remember, claiming his first Grand Slam title at the Australian Open and adding another at the U.S. Open. He capped off the year by lifting the ATP Finals trophy and leading Italy to a second consecutive Davis Cup victory in Malaga. Sinner’s dominant 73-6 win-loss record solidified his status as the top player in men’s tennis.
However, Sinner’s legacy faces uncertainty as he awaits a Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) hearing in April following two failed drug tests in March 2024. The 23-year-old was initially cleared of wrongdoing by a doping tribunal, which accepted his explanation that the banned substance entered his system via massages from his former physiotherapist.
The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA), unsatisfied with the ruling, has appealed the decision, leaving Sinner with the possibility of a two-year ban if the CAS rules against him.
Iga Swiatek: Dominance amidst adversity
Iga Swiatek, who finished the year as world No. 2, claimed the ITF World Champion honor for the second time, edging out top-ranked Aryna Sabalenka. Swiatek’s 2024 season highlights include her fourth French Open title, four WTA 1000 victories, and a bronze medal at the Paris Olympics.
However, her achievements were also marred by a doping violation. The Polish star tested positive for trimetazidine but served only a one-month ban after a tribunal determined the failed test was due to a contaminated batch of melatonin. Swiatek has since returned to the sport and reclaimed her form, but the incident has added a layer of controversy to her otherwise outstanding season.
Doubles honors
The ITF also recognized the doubles champions of 2024. Marcelo Arevalo of El Salvador and Mate Pavic of Croatia were crowned men’s doubles world champions, while Italy’s Sara Errani and Jasmine Paolini took the women’s doubles title.
ITF selection criteria and significance
The ITF World Champions are selected based on performances at Grand Slam tournaments, the Davis Cup, Billie Jean King Cup, and the Olympic Games, emphasizing consistency and excellence on the sport’s biggest stages.
While Sinner and Swiatek’s accolades are undeniable, the cloud of doping allegations highlights the challenges tennis faces in preserving its integrity while celebrating athletic excellence.