Jannik Sinner Withdraws From US Open Mixed Doubles, Focuses On Singles Defense News24 –
World No. 1 Jannik Sinner has confirmed that he will not take part in the US Open mixed doubles event this week. The Italian star, who was due to partner Katerina Siniakova against Belinda Bencic and Alexander Zverev, has decided to step back after falling ill during the Cincinnati Masters final against Carlos Alcaraz.
Sinner stunned fans when he retired on Monday trailing 5-0 to Alcaraz, ending a title clash that lasted just 23 minutes. He revealed afterward that he had been battling flu symptoms and high fever since Sunday, conditions that worsened overnight.
Despite his struggles, the 24-year-old stepped onto the court determined to at least give the Cincinnati crowd a glimpse of the showdown everyone had been waiting for. But from the very first point, it was clear he was not at his physical best. After five games, he made the difficult yet sensible decision to retire.
“It was tough, but I had to think about the bigger picture,” Sinner said, hinting at the upcoming US Open where he will defend his title.
No Mixed Doubles, All Eyes on Singles
Just 24 hours later, the Italian officially withdrew from the mixed doubles in New York, calling it the only logical move. With the grueling best-of-five singles format ahead, Sinner has prioritized rest and recovery.
His absence in doubles is a blow for fans who were excited to see him team up with Siniakova, one of the most accomplished doubles players on tour. However, the decision underscores his focus: ensuring he is physically ready to mount a strong defense of his US Open crown.
A Silver Lining in Cincinnati
While the loss to Alcaraz was far from the ending Sinner had hoped for, there were positives to take from Cincinnati. He reached yet another Masters final and showed flashes of brilliance in earlier rounds despite feeling under the weather.
For the Italian, the defeat is less about the scoreline and more about the lessons learned.
“Every final helps me understand what I still need to work on. That’s the key if I want to keep improving,” Sinner reflected.
The Road Ahead in New York
With just days before the US Open begins, the tennis world will be watching closely to see if Sinner can regain full health in time. His 2023 triumph in Flushing Meadows marked a career-defining breakthrough, and now, as world No. 1, expectations are even higher.
If his recovery goes as planned, fans can expect the same fearless shot-making and relentless baseline intensity that have made him one of the sport’s most dominant forces.
For now, though, Jannik Sinner’s message is clear: health first, New York second and everything else can wait.