Draper happy to come to the Sinner defence

Brit Jack Draper makes no excuses for training with Jannik Sinner as the world No. 1 makes his comeback after a ban for inadvertent doping by the prohibited substance clostebol.

Under terms of his three month ban – the result of a successful appeal of the original verdict –  Sinner is now allowed back on the practice court with an eye on his Tour return in Rome in early May.

Draper, who last competed nearly a fortnight ago in Monte Carlo, has been working with Sinner on the clay of the principality since Sinner got his go-ahead on April 13.“When people ask about Jannik I tell the truth – I think he is a really genuine, nice person and on top of that he is an unbelievable player,” Draper told British media of his sessions with his good ATP friend..

“In this situation I am sure he would have had absolutely zero idea of anything. That’s the way life goes – sometimes there are mistakes.”

Draper will be heading to the Madrid Masters starting on Wednesday, leaving Sinner and his team to continue comeback work.

The Briton appears to be ready to defend Sinner for as long as needed from “haters.”

“It is important for people to know and recognise the guy is kind-hearted and a good human being. He doesn’t deserve any of the hate he gets.”

He added that it’s also a bonus to be hitting with the best current player in the world.

“If you’re going to train with anyone it has got to be the best in the world, right? 

“He’s obviously had a bit of time off but he’s playing at an incredible level still. It was great to be around him for a few days and get some good sparring.”