Jannik Sinner has withdrawn from the US Open at Flushing Meadows due to a knee injury, marking another setback in what has been a physically challenging period for the Italian. Sinner previously claimed his second Grand Slam title at the 2024 US Open and reached the final again last year, where he was defeated by Carlos Alcaraz. The two players have dominated men's tennis in recent seasons, collectively winning four majors apiece in 2024 and 2025. However, injuries have limited their head-to-head matchups in major tournaments. Alcaraz's wrist injury forced him out of the French Open and Wimbledon, while Sinner's withdrawal means the pair have not competed together at the past three Grand Slams. Their only meeting this year came in April's Monte Carlo final, where Sinner prevailed to reclaim the world number one ranking. With Sinner's absence, Germany's Alexander Zverev will be the top seed at Flushing Meadows, followed by Alcaraz and Canada's Felix Auger-Aliassime. The US Open singles main draws begin on Sunday 30 August.

Sinner's withdrawal continues a trend of physical issues affecting top players in 2026. The Italian's knee problem adds to concerns about his long-term fitness, especially given his intense rivalry with Alcaraz. Despite their dominance, neither player has been able to maintain consistent participation in major events due to injuries. This has somewhat diminished the excitement around their matchups, which were highly anticipated throughout 2024 and 2025.

The absence of both Sinner and Alcaraz from recent Grand Slams has opened opportunities for other players like Zverev, who has been steady but not spectacular in their absence. The men's draw at Flushing Meadows now lacks its two biggest stars, potentially reshaping the tournament's dynamics.

With the main draws starting on August 30, the US Open will proceed without one of its most compelling storylines. Fans will be watching closely to see how the remaining seeds perform in this altered landscape.