Jannik Sinner advances at US Open against backdrop of doping case #usopen2024 #usopen #atp

World No. 1 Jannik Sinner, playing his first match since news of his positive tests for a banned substance emerged a week ago, rallied from a slow start against American Mackenzie McDonald in the first round of the US Open on Tuesday. Playing in the second match of the afternoon at Arthur Ashe Stadium, Sinner struggled in the opening set before rebounding for a 2-6, 6-2, 6-1, 6-2 victory."I tried to stay there mentally and I tried to get into rhythm, just tried to keep going, so I'm very happy to be in the next round," Sinner said on court after the match. "It's the first time I have won in this court so I am very happy."While McDonald, ranked No. 140 and seeking the biggest win of his career, certainly had the support of the home crowd, Sinner was largely cheered throughout the match and given a warm reception at its conclusion.

There were no audible boos or jeers from those in the stands in response to the news that Sinner had tested positive twice for trace amounts of the anabolic steroid clostebol in an eight-day span in March.The Italian player later told reporters the fans have been "great" and said there has been a lot of support during his practice sessions, as well as during Tuesday's match."It has been very positive," Sinner said. "I was very glad how the support was, also playing against an American ... it's a little bit different. So I'm happy how I handled the situation, it was not easy. So I think a lot of positive things from today's day."Sinner, the reigning Australian Open champion and winner of the Cincinnati Open earlier this month, improved to 29-2 on hard court this season, the most wins on the surface by any player on the men's or women's tour this season.