Injuries can reshape Grand Slam draws, removing leading contenders and changing the course of a season. The 2026 US Open is missing world No 1 Jannik Sinner, who withdrew with a right knee injury.
Sinner’s Absence Continues a Notable Pattern in Men’s Tennis
Sinner, the reigning Wimbledon champion and four-time Grand Slam winner, has not competed since defeating Alexander Zverev in the Wimbledon final on July 12. He skipped the Masters 1000 events in Montreal and Cincinnati as a precaution, with hopes of returning for the US Open. The injury persisted, however, and Sinner withdrew from the season’s final major, leaving the draw without its top seed.
Men’s tennis has seen world No 1 players miss Grand Slams through injury before. The demands of the calendar have produced several high-profile absences in recent years, while other stars such as Carlos Alcaraz have also missed events in 2026 because of injury. When the biggest names are absent, new contenders have an opportunity and the balance at the top of the game changes.
Sinner Provides Reassurance Amid Recovery
Sinner has remained visible in Italian sport despite missing the US Open. Days after withdrawing, he attended the Italian Grand Prix in Monza with his father and compatriot Matteo Berrettini. Asked about his knee, Sinner offered a short and upbeat update: “The knee? It’s all fine,” he told Italian newspaper la Repubblica.
He also addressed the disappointment of missing New York on social media. “Missing the US Open this year is tough,” he wrote. “I was looking forward to being back with the fans, seeing friends and partners. New York has a special place in my heart. For now, back to recovery and working to come back stronger. Good luck to all the players! See you soon.”
Sinner has not named a return date, though he remains on the entry list for tournaments scheduled after the US Open. Sky Sport Italy reports that one of the later-season events is the leading option for his comeback, but nothing has been officially confirmed.
Off the Court, Sinner Maintains Sporting Presence
Away from competition, Sinner has continued to attend major sporting events. Following his visit to Monza, the world No 1 was seen at the Juventus-Milan football match, watching warm-ups from the front row.
The 25-year-old’s update and public appearances point to progress in his rehabilitation. His brief statement at Monza has offered reassurance as fans and tournament organizers await his return.
No specific comeback date has been set, but Sinner remains an active presence in Italian sport during his break from competition.
