World number one Jannik Sinner has withdrawn from the 2026 US Open just over a week before the tournament begins due to a right knee injury.
The 25-year-old Italian announced his decision on Instagram on August 21, saying he and his medical team realised he needed more time to recover after testing his fitness on the court in Monte Carlo.
"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 wrote.
He added: "I'm obviously very sad and disappointed, as New York has a special place in my heart. I was very much looking forward to coming back and playing in the electric atmosphere in front of the great fans there."
The withdrawal marks the first time Sinner will miss the tournament in Queens, New York, since he began a run of seven consecutive appearances in 2019. He won his first US Open title in 2024 and finished as the runner-up in the men's singles last year, losing to his rival Carlos Alcaraz.
Alcaraz has confirmed he will compete at the US Open this year, despite being sidelined in recent months by a wrist injury.
Ongoing knee issue
Sinner revealed his knee problem earlier this month when he pulled out of the Cincinnati Open.
"My right knee has been bothering me," he said in an August 9 statement to ESPN. "Even though we have been working hard with my medical team, I have to accept that I'm not ready to compete yet."
He added that he was disappointed to miss the event in Cincinnati but was focusing on getting ready for the US Open.
Although he will miss the final Grand Slam of the year, which officially kicks off on August 30, Sinner has already secured major silverware in 2026. He won his second consecutive Wimbledon title last month, beating reigning Roland-Garros winner Alexander Zverev to claim his fifth career Grand Slam.
