Jannik Sinner: Behind-the-scenes details emerge about yet another frustrating withdrawal

This was the last thing he needed: Jannik Sinner has been forced to postpone his return to the court once again and has announced his withdrawal from the Shanghai Masters 1000. The world No. 1 still isn’t feeling up to playing, and after pulling out of Beijing, he has also withdrawn from the second Chinese tournament: now, according to rumors, even his participation in the Six Kings Slam—scheduled for mid-October in Riyadh—is in serious doubt.

On social media, fans are demanding explanations, with many growing impatient due to the persistent silence from the South Tyrolean champion’s entourage. However, Sky has provided some behind-the-scenes insight into the Italian player’s situation, noting that he has chosen to err on the side of caution precisely to avoid any negative consequences for his career.

“The path chosen remains the same: one of prudence. To minimize the margin of risk. The goal is to regain peak form, but above all to safeguard the athlete’s future. No to rushed comebacks, considering the all-too-frequent long-term injuries suffered by other tennis players in recent years—and there are plenty of examples. The focus is on the next decade, not the next tournament,” wrote Sky journalist Angelo Mangiante on X.

“The problem is always the same: extra-articular tendon inflammation in the right knee. It’s not a serious condition, but recovery takes a long time and carries risks of relapse and chronicity—exactly what Sinner wants to avoid. The precautions are aimed at regaining his form and exercising the utmost caution regarding the risk of relapse.”

By skipping the China tour, Sinner is on the verge of losing his world No. 1 ranking: if Zverev wins in Beijing and Shanghai, he’ll become the new benchmark on the ATP Tour. But even if the German player doesn’t prevail in China, it would only be a matter of time: Sinner is set to defend his titles in Vienna, Paris, and the ATP Finals, but he’ll only play if he’s 100% fit. “Wisdom and the right amount of caution. All of his decisions should be viewed in this light,” Mangiante commented. There’s always time for records and milestones.