World No. 1 Jannik Sinner announced on Friday his withdrawal from the 2026 US Open. The 25-year-old Italian is still dealing with the right knee problem that has kept him off the tour since his Wimbledon triumph in July. It marks the first time since his professional debut in 2019 that he will miss a Grand Slam tournament.
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A decision made after practice sessions in Monte Carlo
Sinner attempted to resume training in Monte Carlo over the past few days, working alongside his medical team. The sessions did not go as hoped. "We have realized that I still need more time to recover from my right knee issue," the champion wrote in a statement posted on social media. "I am obviously very sad and disappointed, as New York has a special place in my heart."
Out of action since Wimbledon
Sinner's last competitive match dates back to the Wimbledon final, where he defeated Alexander Zverev to claim his fifth Grand Slam title and his second consecutive crown on the London grass. Since then, he has pulled out of the Masters 1000 events in Montreal and Cincinnati, sitting out the entire North American hard-court swing.
What this means for the US Open
Sinner's absence reshuffles the deck at Flushing Meadows. Carlos Alcaraz, the defending champion who confirmed on Thursday his return after four months out with a wrist injury, becomes the clear favorite. Zverev, the beaten Wimbledon finalist, could inherit the No. 1 seeding if Sinner retains his ATP ranking despite his withdrawal. The draw, scheduled for August 28, is now wide open.
Key numbers
Sinner, 25, holds a 52-4 win-loss record in 2026 with five titles including Wimbledon and the Australian Open. His withdrawal ends a streak of 28 consecutive Grand Slam appearances, stretching back to the 2019 US Open. The Italian has offered no return timeline, leaving his availability for the Asian swing in the fall uncertain. (Sources: ATP Tour, ESPN, Tennis Majors, CNN)
