Jannik Sinner, the current top-ranked male tennis player globally, pulled out of the Cincinnati Open on Sunday due to a knee problem. Sinner, who last competed at Wimbledon, has also withdrawn from the National Bank Open in Montreal. The 24-year-old, holding five Grand Slam titles, is eyeing the French Open to achieve a career Grand Slam.
In a statement released by tournament officials, the Italian player expressed his disappointment at missing the Masters 1000 event in Cincinnati due to an ongoing issue with his right knee. Despite intensive efforts with his medical team, Sinner acknowledged his readiness to compete isn’t optimal. He looks forward to returning next year and is now focused on preparing for the U.S. Open.
This decision by Sinner comes after Carlos Alcaraz announced his withdrawal from the Cincinnati tournament earlier due to a wrist injury. Consequently, the absence of both top players will disappoint fans at the upcoming men’s singles event in Cincinnati.
Notably, Sinner claimed the Cincinnati title two years ago, using it as a springboard to his subsequent U.S. Open triumph. However, Alcaraz ended Sinner’s reign by defeating him in last year’s U.S. Open final. The 23-year-old Spaniard aims to defend his championship when the tournament kicks off on August 30.