Jannik Sinner to miss US Open with knee injury

Jannik Sinner, the world number one, will skip the US Open due to a right knee injury, according to official statements. The Italian star, who won Wimbledon earlier this month, has not competed since defeating Alexander Zverev in the final. His absence marks the first time he has missed a Grand Slam tournament since his professional debut at the 2019 US Open. Sinner's withdrawal adds to a growing list of players withdrawing from the men’s singles draw, with six others having already pulled out, alongside six female athletes, including British sensation Emma Raducanu. Sinner made the announcement following a brief return to play in Monte Carlo, where he and his team assessed the extent of his injury. Despite ongoing rehabilitation efforts, the decision was reached that competing at Flushing Meadows would not be feasible. He expressed disappointment, noting the emotional significance of the US Open to him. “New York has a special place in my heart,” he said. “I was very much looking forward to coming back and playing in the electric atmosphere in front of the great fans there.” The Italian will stay in Europe to continue his recovery, aiming to prepare for the tournaments in Beijing and Shanghai later this year. The news follows the announcement by Sinner’s long-time rival, Carlos Alcaraz, who will make his return from a four-month hiatus due to a wrist injury at the same tournament. The two players met in three consecutive Grand Slam finals last year, with Sinner losing to Alcaraz in New York. Their rivalry has become central to men’s tennis, with both players vying for dominance in the sport. With Sinner absent, Alcaraz will face off against Zverev, who is set to take the top seed position in New York. Sinner’s absence leaves him and Alcaraz having only played one Grand Slam together in 2026, the Australian Open, while Alcaraz will sit out the French Open and Wimbledon. This highlights the increasingly grueling schedule of professional tennis, which has raised concerns about player health and longevity. Sinner’s injury underscores the physical toll of competing at the highest level, particularly during the packed summer season. Despite his withdrawal, Sinner’s world number one status remains secure. He holds a lead of over 5,000 points over his closest competitor, ensuring his ranking is not immediately threatened. Zverev, who defeated Sinner at Wimbledon, will be the top seed in New York, adding to the competitive landscape of the tournament. The Italian’s absence creates an opportunity for other contenders to step up, although the field remains highly competitive. Sinner’s team continues to work closely with medical professionals to ensure a full recovery. He plans to remain in Europe for the remainder of the year, focusing on rehabilitation and preparation for upcoming events. The Italian’s absence is expected to generate additional interest in the US Open, as fans and analysts speculate on how the tournament might unfold without one of its most prominent stars. As the tournament approaches, the focus will shift to the remaining players, with the hope that they can deliver thrilling performances in the absence of Sinner.