Defending Wimbledon champion and world No. 1 Jannik Sinner is a notable absence from the 2026 US Open as he continues to recover from a knee injury. The Italian’s absence marks a significant shift from recent Grand Slam tournaments, where fans grew accustomed to seeing Sinner and his primary rival, Carlos Alcaraz, compete for major titles. The 2026 season has deviated from that script; only the Australian Open featured both stars, with Alcaraz subsequently missing the French Open and Wimbledon due to a wrist injury before Sinner withdrew from Flushing Meadows.
Sinner Spotted at Italian Grand Prix
Despite his absence from the hard courts in New York, Sinner made a public appearance on Saturday at the Formula 1 Italian Grand Prix in Monza. The Sinner family are known enthusiasts of the historic race, which originated in 1921. The top-ranked player attended the event alongside his father, taking time to graciously sign autographs for fans.
Positive Update on Knee Injury
When questioned regarding his physical condition, Sinner offered a brief but encouraging assessment. He stated his knee “is fine”. While the news is positive, the typically reserved player declined to use the motorsport event as a platform to elaborate on the specific status of his rehabilitation, preferring to enjoy the race.
Berrettini Confirms Sinner’s Good Spirits
Sinner was not the only prominent Italian tennis figure at the circuit. Matteo Berrettini, who suffered a second-round loss to Mariano Navone at the US Open on September 2, was also in attendance. Berrettini confirmed that he and Sinner arrived at the venue together and reported that all is well with his compatriot.
Italian Hopes Rest on Darderi in New York
Back at the US Open, the Italian contingent in the men’s draw has dwindled unexpectedly. Many anticipated Flavio Cobolli would be the last Italian man standing, but he suffered a shocking four-set defeat against Alexander Blockx on Saturday. That result leaves Luciano Darderi as the sole remaining Italian in the tournament. Darderi faces a formidable test on Monday, September 7, against top seed Alexander Zverev in the Round of 16.