World Number One Jannik Sinner Withdraws from Cincinnati Open Due to Knee Injury, Eyes US Open

World number one Jannik Sinner has announced his withdrawal from the Cincinnati Open this week due to a knee injury. Despite the setback, the Italian player is optimistic about his recovery and expects to be ready for the US Open later this month.

Sinner, who secured his fifth Grand Slam singles title by defeating Alexander Zverev at Wimbledon last month, has not competed since the prestigious tournament. He explained his decision, stating, "After consulting with my doctors and my team, I have to announce that I need to withdraw from the Masters 1000 tournament in Cincinnati."

He further elaborated on the issue, saying, "My right knee has been bothering me and even though we have been working hard with my medical team, I have to accept I'm not ready to compete yet." Sinner expressed his disappointment about missing the Cincinnati event and is now shifting his focus to preparing for the US Open. "I'm very disappointed not to be able to play in Cincinnati. I can't wait to be back next year and I'm now focusing on getting ready for the US Open," he added.

The Cincinnati Open's main draw commences on August 13th, with the finals scheduled for August 23rd. Notable players like Alexander Zverev and 24-time Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic are expected to participate.

Interestingly, last year's Cincinnati champion, Carlos Alcaraz, will also be absent. The Spanish player, who won the 2023 event after Sinner retired due to illness in the final, is currently sidelined with a wrist injury that has kept him off the court since the Barcelona Open in April. Alcaraz, ranked second in the world, will not be able to defend his title.

The US Open, the final Grand Slam tournament of the year, is set to take place in New York from August 30th to September 13th.