Jannik Sinner has been dealt a setback just weeks ahead of the U.S. Open, as a right knee injury has compelled him to pull out of the Cincinnati Open.
Currently the World No. 1, Sinner made the difficult choice to withdraw after seeking advice from his medical team and trusted advisors, as he revealed in a statement distributed by the tournament.
“I’ve been struggling with my right knee, and despite diligent efforts with my medical team, I must acknowledge that I’m not yet fit to compete,” Sinner explained in his announcement. “It’s deeply disappointing not to join the competition in Cincinnati. I extend my best wishes to [tournament director] Bob [Moran] and his team for a fantastic and successful event. I’m eagerly looking forward to returning next year, as my current focus is on preparing for the upcoming U.S. Open.”
Last year at the U.S. Open, Sinner reached the finals but was bested by World No. 2 Carlos Alcaraz in a gripping four-set match in Queens. In 2024, Sinner clinched his maiden U.S. Open title with a victory over Taylor Fritz.
The eagerly awaited Grand Slam action is set to begin on August 30.
Sinner’s injury forced him out of his second straight major ATP event after he skipped the Canadian Open that was held in Montreal this week in order to “prioritize my health.”
The Italian has not competed since he captured his sixth major championship in July when he defeated Alexander Zverev in the final at Wimbledon.
Sinner is not the only one dealing with injury lately.
Alcaraz hasn’t played since April as he’s recovered from a wrist injury and will also be skipping the Cincinnati Open, he announced last week.
“We know Carlos is doing everything he can to get back to playing tournaments as soon as possible,” Moran said in a statement at the time. “We wish him the best with his recovery and look forward to welcoming him back to Cincinnati in the future.”