Injured Sinner withdraws from US Open

World number one Jannik Sinner has withdrawn from the US Open after failing to recover fully from a knee injury.

The 25-year-old Italian has not played competitively since winning his fifth Grand Slam title at Wimbledon in July, where he defeated Alexander Zverev in the final.

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Sinner’s withdrawal comes a day after his major rival, Carlos Alcaraz, confirmed he would compete at Flushing Meadows following a four-month absence caused by a wrist injury.

With Alcaraz sidelined for much of the season, Sinner has dominated the men’s tour in 2026 and established a comfortable lead at the top of the ATP rankings.

However, the Italian has now been forced to miss the final Grand Slam of the season after struggling to overcome the problem with his right knee.

“Even though I have been working hard with my team and my medical staff, we have now had to make the difficult decision that I will not be able to compete at the US Open this year,” Sinner said.

“We have been back on court in Monte Carlo over the last couple of days and have realised that I still need more time to recover from my right knee issue.

“I’m obviously very sad and disappointed, as New York has a special place in my heart.”

Sinner’s absence leaves the US Open men’s draw without the world number one and creates a major opportunity for Alcaraz and other leading contenders to challenge for the title.