Diego Nargiso has a clear theory about Jannik Sinner’s withdrawal

Former Italian tennis player and current Supertennis commentator Diego Nargiso spoke in an interview with Quotidiano Nazionale about Jannik Sinner and his withdrawal from the U.S. Open, highlighting a detail that could be at the root of his knee problem. “I have a feeling this is an issue he’s been dealing with for a while.”

“He’s one of the top ‘imitators’ of Djokovic when it comes to incredible recoveries and slides on hard courts. A style of play that gradually causes microtraumas. Since Sinner isn’t among the most muscular players on the tour, he evidently tends to suffer more from this type of joint damage.” Flavio Cobolli, 24, is leading the Italian contingent in New York. Nargiso doesn’t believe the problem is serious: “I think it’s more of a nagging issue that he’s been keeping under control for some time. It’s certainly manageable, but to return without any concerns and not jeopardize the end of the season, he’s chosen to put his health first.”

Italy, however, has other great players like Flavio Cobolli: “The young man is really coming into his own. In Cincinnati, he had what it took to reach the final, but even at the start of the year, he was already impressing with his play and personality.” His run to the Roland Garros final suggests that in this Grand Slam, too, he could be among the top eight players to beat: the five-set format will allow him to get back into matches during tough moments, and big stages bring out the best in him. He has what it takes to be a true leader in Jannik’s absence.”

Then there’s Lorenzo Musetti: “Musetti is always a joy to watch. He’s ready for the breakthrough everyone’s waiting for—who knows if it’ll happen next week. To keep improving, he’ll need to add more verticality to his game.” And Luciano Darderi: “I’ve known Luciano since he was a kid. He’s made an incredible leap forward, but I think he’ll need to set aside some of his recklessness and fighting spirit to find his own identity, because he plays really well on fast courts.” On Matteo Berrettini: “We just have to hope he’s healthy. If he gets into a rhythm and makes it to the second week, he can beat almost anyone. And let’s not forget Arnaldi, who reached the semifinals in Paris (though he didn’t play due to a virus, ed.). He needs to be beaten twenty times.”