Jannik Sinner pulls out of US Open after failing to recover from knee injury

Jannik Sinner has officially withdrawn from the 2026 US Open due to ongoing issues with a right knee injury, marking a significant absence from the final Grand Slam of the season. The world No. 1 made the announcement after recent training sessions in Monte Carlo indicated that he required additional time to recover fully. Sinner expressed disappointment at missing the tournament, which holds a special place in his heart, having previously won the US Open in 2024. The decision follows a series of setbacks for Sinner, who had already opted out of the Canadian Open and Cincinnati Open while continuing his rehabilitation process. His absence from these tournaments highlights the severity of his injury, which has prevented him from returning to competitive play since his Wimbledon victory. In a statement shared on social media, Sinner acknowledged the efforts of his team and medical staff but emphasized that further recovery time was necessary. Sinner's withdrawal creates an opportunity for other players to step up in the US Open draw. Carlos Taberner, a 29-year-old Spanish tennis player with a career-high singles ranking of No. 83, has been granted entry into the main draw as a result of Sinner's absence. Taberner, who turned professional in 2015, has primarily competed on the ATP Challenger circuit and previously participated in the 2025 US Open qualifiers, where he was eliminated in the first round. Earlier this year, he faced Lorenzo Sonego in the first round of the Australian Open. Sinner's injury concerns escalated earlier this month when he visited a clinic in Milan for evaluations regarding his right knee. The extended examination at the Physioclinic orthopaedic clinic raised questions about his readiness for the upcoming hard-court season. This development adds to the growing narrative surrounding Sinner's health, especially considering his recent success at Wimbledon, where he secured his fifth Grand Slam title. The absence of Sinner from the US Open also impacts the dynamics of the men's singles draw. With Carlos Alcaraz set to return from a right wrist injury, he now stands as the highest-ranked player in the tournament. Alcaraz had previously missed the French Open and Wimbledon but has confirmed his participation in New York. His presence alongside other top-tier players sets the stage for a highly competitive field. Sinner's decision to withdraw underscores the challenges athletes face when balancing their health with competitive ambitions. His commitment to recovery reflects the importance placed on long-term well-being in professional sports. As the US Open approaches, attention will shift to how the remaining players adapt to the evolving landscape of the tournament.