Sinner Withdraws from Cincinnati Due to Knee Injury
World No. 1 Jannik Sinner has pulled out of the ATP Masters 1000 in Cincinnati, which could be an opportunity for Novak Djokovic ahead of the US Open.
World No. 1 Jannik Sinner has pulled out of the ATP Masters 1000 in Cincinnati, which could be an opportunity for Novak Djokovic ahead of the US Open.
Italian tennis player Jannik Sinner, currently the world's top-ranked player, will not compete at this year's ATP Masters in Cincinnati. As tournament organizers confirmed on Saturday, August 9, 2026, the reason for his withdrawal is a knee injury.
The news was announced on the tournament's official X account, where Masters officials sent a message of support to last year's champion. "We wish all the best to our 2024 champion and can't wait to see you back on court next year," the post read. The Italian news agency ANSA specified that the issue is with his right knee.
Sinner himself issued a statement explaining his decision. "After consulting with doctors and my team, I have to announce that I am withdrawing from the Masters 1000 in Cincinnati," Sinner said. "My right knee has been causing me problems, and although we have worked hard with my medical team, I have to accept that I am not yet ready to compete."
This is the second consecutive tournament the 24-year-old Italian has missed due to injury, following his withdrawal from the National Bank Open in Montreal last week. He was last seen on court in July, when he defended his Wimbledon title by defeating Alexander Zverev.
Sinner's absence further thins the player field in Cincinnati, as world No. 2 Carlos Alcaraz has also pulled out due to a wrist injury. Last year, Sinner retired from the Cincinnati final against Alcaraz after just five games in the first set.
Sinner's absence from the Cincinnati tournament, which serves as an important warm-up for the season's final Grand Slam, opens up space for other players in the title race. Particular attention is focused on Serbian tennis player Novak Djokovic, who now has a chance to achieve a notable result and gain extra confidence ahead of the US Open in New York.
The main draw in Cincinnati begins on August 13, while the US Open starts on August 30. "I'm really disappointed not to be able to play in Cincinnati... I can't wait to come back next year, and now I'm focusing on preparing for the US Open," Sinner said.
It is not yet known how long the knee injury will keep Sinner off the court and whether it will affect his appearance at the US Open. The Italian, who triumphed in Cincinnati in 2024, will miss the chance to defend his title at this prestigious Masters event.
