Jannik Sinner Withdraws From US Open 2026 With Persistent Knee Injury
The world No. 1 will miss the final Grand Slam of the season after failing to recover from a lingering right knee problem.
NEW YORK, Aug 22: World No. 1 Jannik Sinner has withdrawn from the 2026 US Open because of a persistent right knee injury, dealing a major blow to the men’s singles draw ahead of the final Grand Slam of the season.
The Italian star announced his decision on Friday, just over a week before the main draw is scheduled to begin at Flushing Meadows on August 30.
Sinner has been struggling with the knee problem for several weeks and had already missed the Canadian Open and Cincinnati Open as he attempted to recover in time for the US Open.
His absence is expected to significantly alter the complexion of the tournament. As the reigning world No. 1, Sinner was among the leading contenders for the title and had been expected to play a central role in the tournament’s headline rivalry.
The withdrawal comes shortly after Carlos Alcaraz confirmed his return to competitive action, adding another twist to the build-up to the New York major.
Sinner’s decision also highlights the physical demands of the second half of the tennis season, with players facing a packed schedule leading into the US Open.
The tournament is scheduled to run from August 31 to September 13, with the singles champions set to receive record prize money of $5.5 million, according to reports.
For Sinner, the immediate priority will be managing the knee problem and ensuring a full recovery rather than risking further damage by returning before he is ready.
His withdrawal leaves the US Open men’s field without one of its biggest stars and opens up an opportunity for other leading contenders to strengthen their claims for the final Grand Slam title of 2026.
