Sinner withdraws from Cincinnati Open with knee injury ahead of US Open

World number one Jannik Sinner has been forced to withdraw from the Cincinnati Open, dealing a significant blow to his preparations for the upcoming U.S. Open. The Italian star announced his withdrawal on Sunday, citing a persistent issue with his right knee.

Sinner expressed his deep disappointment, stating, "My right knee has been bothering me and even though we have been working hard with my medical team, I have to accept that I'm not ready to compete yet." He added, "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 U.S. Open."

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My right knee has been bothering me and even though we have been working hard with my medical team, I have to accept that I'm not ready to compete yet.

This withdrawal marks the second consecutive tournament Sinner has pulled out of, having also missed the Canadian Open, another crucial warm-up event for the U.S. Open. Sinner is the reigning Cincinnati champion from 2024 and was the runner-up last year to Carlos Alcaraz. His absence further diminishes the star power at the Masters 1000 event.

The Cincinnati Open's field has been further weakened by the withdrawal of U.S. Open champion Carlos Alcaraz, who is also sidelined with a wrist injury. The main draw for the Cincinnati tournament is set to begin on August 13, with the U.S. Open main draw commencing on August 30.

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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 U.S. Open.