World No.1 Jannik Sinner to miss remainder of 2026 season after knee treatment decision

World No.1 Jannik Sinner said on Tuesday in a video posted on X that he will miss the rest of the 2026 season to undergo treatment for a knee injury. The 25-year-old has not played since his Wimbledon triumph on July 12 and confirmed the season-ending decision after consulting with his doctors.

Sinner defeated Alexander Zverev in the Wimbledon final on July 12 and subsequently withdrew from the North American hardcourt swing, including the US Open, before also sitting out the Asian swing. His announcement followed medical consultations about ongoing knee problems that have kept him off tour since the Wimbledon victory. The player framed the move as necessary for his long-term career rather than a short-term absence.

"Me, together with the doctors, have decided that I need a course of treatment for my knee which means the 2026 season is officially over," Sinner said in the video posted on X. He provided that statement as the formal confirmation that he will not return to competition this year.

Sinner added: "The last couple of years, especially the ending in Turin, gave me so many beautiful feelings and emotions which this year is going to be way different," he said. "But at the moment, I also need to think about my long-term career. So I'll do everything possible to get back 100%."

Sinner's team said he will undergo treatment for inflammation in his knee, with the decision taken to allow sufficient time for recovery before beginning preparations for the 2027 season. That treatment plan is intended to address the inflammation and to provide a clear timeline for his return to training.

The injury rules Sinner out of the European indoor hardcourt tournaments and the ATP Finals in Turin, where he won the title in the last two years. His absence could affect the race for the world No.1 ranking: Alexander Zverev, currently second in the ATP rankings, has reduced the gap to Sinner and will have further opportunities to gain points during the remaining tournaments of the season.

Sinner will now wait until 2027 for a return to competitive tennis, with the Australian Open scheduled to begin in January, and his immediate priority is to recover fully from the knee problem before starting preparations for the new season.