World number one Jannik Sinner has pulled out of next week’s Shanghai Masters, citing an ongoing knee injury that has kept the Italian off the court since his Wimbledon triumph in July.
The 25-year-old announced his decision on Instagram on Saturday, expressing regret that he would miss the opportunity to compete before fans in Shanghai.
“Unfortunately, I won’t be able to play at the Rolex Shanghai Masters this year as I had hoped,” Sinner wrote. “I always enjoy playing in front of the Shanghai fans and I’m very sorry that I won’t be able to do so next week.”
Sinner has not featured in competition since claiming the men’s singles title at the All England Club. His absence extends to the North American hardcourt swing, which included the US Open, as well as the current ATP 500 event in Beijing.
The Masters 1000 tournament, scheduled from Wednesday through October 18, boasts a formidable lineup headlined by four-time champion Novak Djokovic. Other top contenders include Alexander Zverev, Carlos Alcaraz, Daniil Medvedev, Ben Shelton, Felix Auger-Aliassime, and defending champion Valentin Vacherot.
Sinner previously captured the Shanghai title in 2024, defeating Djokovic in the final. His withdrawal creates a potential path for German star Alexander Zverev to ascend to the world number one ranking.
Zverev, who won both the French Open and the US Open this year, has emerged as Sinner’s closest rival. If Zverev secures victories at both the China Open in Beijing and the Shanghai Masters, he will claim the top spot in the rankings for the first time.
Is it surprising he sat out the US Open too? Seems like the priority is long-term health over short-term titles.
Shanghai fans will be gutted. He won there last year and clearly loves playing in front of those crowds.
Knee injuries are so brutal for athletes. Hope Jannik recovers fully before the finals season begins.
Does Zverev have a shot at number one if he wins both China events? This changes the ranking picture significantly.
Disappointing news. I was really looking forward to seeing Sinner back on hard courts in Shanghai.