Jannik Sinner's preparations for the US Open are clouded by uncertainty after he sought medical attention for knee discomfort in Italy, just weeks before the final Grand Slam of the season.
The world No. 1 visited doctors in Milan last week and then traveled to the J Medical Centre in Turin earlier this week, where he saw Professor Gianluca Melegati, known for treating Brazilian football legend Ronaldo and previously working with AC Milan and Italy's national rugby team.
Knee issue threatens Cincinnati participation
Initial reports suggested the visits were routine, but it has now emerged that Sinner is battling a knee problem that could rule him out of next week's Masters 1000 event in Cincinnati. If he skips that tournament, he could enter the US Open without any warm-up matches.
According to Corriere della Sera, the five-time Grand Slam champion is expected to assess how his knee responds before deciding whether he needs further examination. He is scheduled to leave for Cincinnati on Sunday, but his plans could change depending on his condition.
Potential underprepared title defense
Sinner, who won the US Open in 2024, has not played since winning Wimbledon last month. He will be eager to get match practice on North American hard courts before heading to New York, but he may have to prioritize caution over preparation.
His main rival, Carlos Alcaraz, has already withdrawn from the Cincinnati Open due to a wrist injury. The Spaniard, who has not played since April, is reportedly considering a wildcard for the ATP 250 event in Winston-Salem the week before the US Open to ease his return.
Tournament organizers announced Alcaraz's withdrawal, saying: "Carlos Alcaraz has withdrawn from the Cincinnati Open. Wishing all the best to our 2025 champion in his recovery process. Can't wait to welcome you next year!"
Both players are taking cautious approaches to their comebacks, aiming to be fully fit for the US Open, even if it means missing warm-up events.
