Jannik Sinner has issued a worrying injury update, saying he feels he has "no control" over his recovery from a right knee problem, casting doubt on his participation in the Australian Open in January.
The 25-year-old Italian has not played since winning Wimbledon in the summer and has slipped to third in the ATP rankings as a result of his lengthy absence. He was forced to end his season early to undergo a non-surgical treatment programme for the knee issue.
Fighting to be fit for Melbourne
Sinner won the Australian Open in 2024 and 2025 but was beaten by eventual runner-up Novak Djokovic in this year's semi-final. In an interview with Sky Sports Italy, he said he was hoping to return in Melbourne but explained there was only so much he could do.
"I have the best doctors in the world by my side, and I'm following the plan they've laid out for me. I have to accept this situation so I can come back stronger than before," Sinner said.
"This is the first time I've felt like I don't have control over the situation, and it's strange, a feeling I don't like. At least now I can spend more time with my family and friends."
Respecting the recovery timeline
Sinner said his goal is to be in Australia and that he hopes to make it in time, possibly playing a tournament beforehand. He stressed the importance of respecting the timelines and following medical protocols without trying to speed up his recovery.
"I have complete faith in the team treating me, and I'm working to be able to achieve that goal," he added.
Expanding on his time away, Sinner said: "These months haven't been easy because I miss competing, going out on court and giving 100 per cent. I miss playing tennis. Right now, the most important thing is to take care of my body, because I want to keep playing for another 10 or 15 years."
Support from fellow players
Sinner also thanked Jack Draper, Matteo Berrettini and Carlos Alcaraz for supporting him during his injury absence. He said: "When I announced that my season was over, Berrettini and Draper got in touch straight away. Jack is also going through a difficult period, so he understands what I'm going through."
"Alcaraz had sent me a message, just as I message him. I really appreciated it. We are trying to find a way out of this situation and working towards experiencing those emotions again. For me, tennis is not a job. I continue to play because I enjoy it."
