Jannik Sinner: The Plan for His Return, With One Goal in Sight

For the first time in his career, Jannik Sinner will be forced to watch the U.S. Open on TV. It won’t be easy for the world No. 1 to watch others compete for the Grand Slam title he won two years ago—and in which, this year, he was supposed to defend the final spot he reached last year. Carlos Alcaraz will also be in New York, and he has been sure to send Jannik messages of support. The Spaniard knows all too well what it means to be sidelined: in 2026, he has already had to withdraw from two Grand Slam tournaments.

Sinner, meanwhile, is still in Turin, where he continues his recovery at J Medical for the inflammation in the tendons of his right knee that forced him to take an unexpected break that has lasted longer than anticipated. With this type of injury, the healing process cannot be rushed: it requires rest, therapy, muscle strengthening, and very careful management of physical stress.

Jannik’s program involves alternating between physical therapy and specific exercises. Among the treatments are shockwave therapy prescribed by physiatrist Melegati, which is particularly effective for this type of inflammation, in addition to exercises focused on strengthening the muscles and improving joint stability.

There is only one goal: to restore full knee function and gradually bring it back to handling the stresses typical of tennis. Accelerations, sudden stops, changes of direction, and slides all require a joint ready to withstand significant loads. And that is precisely why the watchword at this stage remains patience.

Sinner will remain sidelined for at least another week. His daily training will continue on sand, in the pool, and in the gym, alternating between J Medical and Continassa. Only when the knee responds as expected will a return to the court be considered. The comeback will necessarily be gradual. First, there will be light, controlled training; then the intensity will increase progressively, as will movement and stress on the joint. The goal is to return to competition in late September in Beijing, where Sinner is expected to resume his season and will also be called upon to defend the title he won in 2025.