Sinner Ends 2026 Season Early With Knee Injury From Wimbledon Absence

Jannik Sinner has ended his 2026 tennis season early because of an ongoing right knee injury, the world number one announced after missing competition since defending his Wimbledon title in July, according to BBC. The Italian player said the decision was made to protect his long-term career.

Sinner finished the year with a 44-3 singles record and a 93.6 percent winning rate when he played, according to BBC and Ben Rothenberg. He won six titles across all three surfaces, including five consecutive Masters 1000 titles from March to May.

The 25-year-old will undergo treatment for his knee after consulting medical staff, with BBC reporting that Alexander Zverev is positioned to replace him as world number one by the end of the year. Sinner also cannot defend ranking points from previous victories in China, Vienna, Paris and the ATP Finals.

"I needed to think about my long-term career" said Jannik Sinner, world number one.

Sinner explained his decision in an Instagram video, where he discussed the injury management process after not competing since Wimbledon. He said the treatment plan was chosen with doctors after evaluating his condition.

"Me together with the doctors have decided that I need a course of treatment for my knee," said Jannik Sinner, world number one.

The Italian star described the season as different from previous years while preparing for his recovery. BBC reported that Sinner had lost only one match between March and July and posted a 10-1 record against top-10 opponents.

"The last couple of years gave me so many beautiful feelings and emotions, which this year is going to be way different," said Jannik Sinner, world number one.

Sinner said his focus would be on returning fully after completing the medical program. He had defeated Carlos Alcaraz in the Monte Carlo Masters final and later defended his Wimbledon title by beating Zverev in the championship match.

"I will do everything possible to get back 100%," said Jannik Sinner, world number one.

Sinner's absence has also affected attention around the ATP Finals in Turin, according to Sports Yahoo. Ticket resale activity increased after his announcement, although more than 100,000 tickets had already been sold before the event.

The tournament field still includes major contenders such as Zverev and Alcaraz, while Novak Djokovic moved into qualification contention after winning Beijing, according to Sports Yahoo. Italian player Flavio Cobolli remained among those competing for a place at the season-ending event.