Jannik Sinner’s Status Still in Doubt; Three Scenarios for His Summer
There’s no reason to sound the alarm just yet, but caution remains the guiding principle for Jannik Sinner. Less than a month after his Wimbledon triumph—which he clinched on July 12 with a victory over Alexander Zverev in the final— the world No. 1 is still dealing with inflammation in his right knee, a result of a fall he suffered in his opening match at the Championships against Miomir Kecmanovic. This discomfort continues to be closely monitored and has prompted some reflection ahead of the U.S. tour, starting with the Cincinnati Masters 1000.
The medical examinations conducted in recent days confirm that these were not merely routine checkups. After an initial visit to JMedical, Sinner underwent a lengthy, approximately four-hour specialist evaluation on Tuesday at the Physioclinic orthopedic clinic in Milan, where he was examined by Professor Gianluca Melegati, his trusted physiatrist who previously served on the staff of the 2010–2011 Italian champion AC Milan and the Italian national rugby team. The specialist, who has also treated champions of the caliber of Ronaldo, Jorge Lorenzo, and Roberto Bolle during his career, was reportedly called back from vacation specifically for this purpose. Rumors also suggest that it was Massimiliano Allegri, a friend and great admirer of Sinner, who recommended the doctor.
The results of the examinations reportedly reassured the South Tyrolean champion and his entourage. Melegati prescribed a course of physical therapy, without identifying any particular issues. After the examination, Sinner returned to Monte Carlo, where he was seen training intensely at the Country Club, appearing to be in good shape both physically and mentally. Furthermore, ahead of his trip to the United States, the world No. 1 has adjusted his training regimen, choosing to train during the hottest hours of the day to acclimate to the weather conditions he’ll face on American hard courts.
Despite these positive signs, his schedule for the Cincinnati Masters 1000, which begins on August 13, has yet to be finalized. The first option is to stick to the original schedule: complete his preparation in Monte Carlo and depart for the United States on Sunday, with the flight reportedly already booked. The second option is to postpone his departure by a few days so he can continue his treatment in Europe and arrive in Ohio just before the tournament begins, without having to forfeit his participation. Finally, there is the possibility of a precautionary withdrawal. In this case, Sinner would skip Cincinnati to focus exclusively on his knee recovery and arrive in the best possible condition for the U.S. Open, scheduled to begin on August 30.
