World number one Jannik Sinner has withdrawn from the US Open due to a persistent right knee injury that has kept him off the court since his triumph at Wimbledon, according to international wire reports. The 25-year-old Italian star’s withdrawal marks the first time he will miss a Grand Slam tournament since making his major debut at Flushing Meadows in 2019.
The Path to Withdrawal and Sinner’s Recovery Timeline
Sinner captured his second title at the All England Club last month by defeating Alexander Zverev in four sets. However, the physical toll of that run forced him to withdraw from the hard-court Masters 1000 tournaments in Montreal and Cincinnati, events designed to serve as direct warm-ups for the final major of the tennis season.
When the main draw at Flushing Meadows gets underway on August 30, the top-ranked player will be absent from the grounds. Sinner confirmed the decision in a statement published on the social media platform X, detailing his recent physical setbacks.
“Although I have been working hard with my team and my medical personal, now we have had to take the difficult decision that I will not be able to compete in the US Open this year,” Sinner wrote in his post. He added that after returning to the practice courts in Monte Carlo over recent days, it became clear that his right knee requires additional recovery time.
“Obviously I am very sad and disappointed, as New York has a special place in my heart,” Sinner noted, expressing his regret at missing the electric atmosphere created by the fans in New York.
Historical Context and Rivalry Implications at Flushing Meadows
He hoisted the US Open trophy in 2024 after defeating Taylor Fritz in straight sets, and reached the final last year before falling to his primary rival, Carlos Alcaraz.
Alcaraz announced via social media that he intends to compete in New York, returning to action after an absence since April due to a right wrist injury.
The rivalry between Sinner and Alcaraz has defined the upper echelon of men’s professional tennis over recent seasons, including matchups in all three Grand Slam finals in 2025. The Spanish player secured the most recent victory in four sets in New York, ending Sinner’s reign after he defeated Taylor Fritz in straight sets in the 2024 final.
Sinner has a 44-3 record with six tournament titles this year. His season has included notable triumphs alongside a surprising second-round exit at Roland Garros, where he surrendered a two-set lead against Argentina’s Juan Manuel Cerúndolo while battling the effects of severe heat.
What Lies Ahead for the US Open Draw
Sinner’s team has not yet announced a definitive date for his return to competitive match play, focusing instead on the rehabilitation of his right knee.
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