World number one Jannik Sinner and Britain's Jack Draper have both pulled out of the upcoming US Open. Their withdrawals are due to ongoing injury concerns, affecting the tournament's top talent.
Sinner has not played competitively since winning the Wimbledon title in July. He is currently dealing with a knee problem. The 25-year-old Italian's decision follows a day after his rival Carlos Alcaraz confirmed his participation. Alcaraz is returning after a four-month absence with a wrist injury.
This development means the highly anticipated rivalry between Sinner and Alcaraz will not feature at this Grand Slam. Their absence from major tournaments has been a recurring theme this year. Sinner's withdrawal also means Germany's Alexander Zverev will now be the top seed at Flushing Meadows. This reshapes the competitive landscape for the tournament.
Sinner stated he worked hard with his team and medical staff. However, they made the difficult decision that he cannot compete this year. He added that he still needs more time to recover from his right knee issue. This decision highlights the physical demands placed on elite athletes.
Draper, who lost to Sinner in the 2024 US Open semi-finals, has withdrawn due to a long-term arm injury. This injury has significantly stalled the 24-year-old's progress. The former British number one suffered bone bruising in his left serving arm. This injury affected his ability to generate power on his serve and forehand.
Draper's representatives expressed he was "gutted" by this setback. They do not know when he will be back competing. He has played only 16 matches in the past 12 months. He also missed all four Grand Slam tournaments this year. This extended absence raises concerns about his long-term career trajectory.
Sinner's team indicated his knee problem does not require surgery. He will focus on rehabilitation and practice sessions in Monte Carlo. He aims to return to the ATP Tour for the Asian hard-court swing in October. This strategic decision prioritises long-term health over immediate tournament participation.
The absence of both Sinner and Draper deprives tennis fans of seeing top talents compete. This is the third successive Grand Slam tournament where Sinner and Alcaraz have not both been present. Their rivalry has been a defining feature of men's tennis in recent years. Their absence impacts viewership and overall tournament excitement.
The US Open singles main draws are scheduled to start on Sunday 30 August. Zverev will be the top seed, followed by Alcaraz and Canadian third seed Felix Auger-Aliassime. The tournament will proceed without two of its prominent young stars. This opens opportunities for other players to advance.