Jannik Sinner: Expert’s Comments Raise Concerns: “A Complex Problem”

The confirmation that Jannik Sinner would not be competing in the Shanghai Masters 1000—announced in a post by the world No. 1 on Instagram and following his withdrawal from the Beijing tournament—has heightened concern among tennis fans. To shed light on the situation, Adnkronos Salute interviewed Andrea Bernetti, full professor of Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine at the University of Salento and secretary general of the Italian Society of Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine (Simfer).

“Although the world No. 1 stated that he had hoped for a quick return right up until the last moment, the decision to extend his break confirms that the knee issue is complex and requires extreme caution.”

“The medical staff’s decision demonstrates the clear-headed ability to prioritize the longevity of his competitive career over the urgency of the schedule. Relying on targeted treatments gives the body the essential biological time needed to heal, reducing the risk of chronic conditions or recurrences and ensuring the athlete’s future return to top-level competition in complete safety.”

The watchword, therefore, is caution. “Modern tennis, characterized by extremely high-intensity rallies, constant decelerations, and violent changes of direction—even on hard courts—generates repeated shear and compressive forces that can exceed the tissues’ natural capacity for self-repair. Contrary to what one might think, the scientific literature shows that most injuries in this sport affect the lower limbs, which account for between 30% and 65% of all injuries on the elite circuit, significantly outnumbering shoulder and elbow injuries.”.