LONDON — Italian tennis star Jannik Sinner has cast major doubt over his participation in the Wimbledon quarter-finals after suffering a worrying injury scare during his fourth-round victory. The world No. 1 has scheduled an emergency MRI scan to assess the extent of the issue, leaving fans and pundits anxiously awaiting updates.
Sinner, who has been in scintillating form this season, appeared to struggle with discomfort during his straight-sets win over American Ben Shelton on Monday. The 22-year-old was seen clutching his left hip and thigh at various points, though he managed to power through to a 6-2, 6-4, 7-6(9) victory. Post-match, Sinner confirmed the injury concern, stating, "I felt something in my leg during the second set. We need to check it properly tomorrow."
The Injury Scare: What We Know So Far
Sinner’s team has remained tight-lipped about the specifics of the injury, but sources close to the player suggest it could be a hip flexor or adductor strain. The timing couldn’t be worse, with the quarter-final clash against either Daniil Medvedev or Grigor Dimitrov looming on Wednesday. Key details:
- Sinner called for a medical timeout late in the third set against Shelton
- Visible discomfort when stretching for wide balls
- Reduced serve speed in the latter stages of the match
Tennis physiotherapist Sarah Murray, who has worked with several top players, analyzed the situation: "The way he was moving suggests it's either a muscular strain or a minor tear. The MRI will be crucial—if it's just tightness, he might play through it, but anything more could rule him out."
Wimbledon’s Grueling Schedule Adds Pressure
The injury comes at a critical juncture in the tournament, with players facing back-to-back matches as Wimbledon reaches its business end. Sinner’s potential quarter-final opponent, Medvedev, has already played two five-set matches this fortnight, while Dimitrov has enjoyed a smoother path. The physical demands of grass-court tennis—particularly the low, sliding movements—could exacerbate Sinner’s issue.
Recent Precedents of Mid-Tournament Withdrawals
Wimbledon has seen several high-profile withdrawals in recent years due to injuries sustained during matches:
- 2022: Matteo Berrettini withdrew before his semi-final with COVID-19
- 2021: Roger Federer retired hurt in his quarter-final against Hubert Hurkacz
- 2017: Novak Djokovic played through an elbow injury, later requiring surgery
Sinner’s coach, Darren Cahill, was cautiously optimistic in comments to reporters: "Jannik is one of the toughest competitors out there. If there's any way he can play, he will. But we won't risk long-term damage for one match."
The Stakes: World No. 1 and Grand Slam Dreams
Beyond the immediate Wimbledon implications, Sinner’s injury raises questions about his summer schedule. The Italian is defending champion at the Canadian Open and was expected to be a favorite at the Paris Olympics. More immediately, he’s locked in a tight battle with Carlos Alcaraz for the year-end No. 1 ranking—a position he claimed for the first time after winning the Australian Open in January.
Former British No. 1 Tim Henman noted the dilemma: "This is where a player’s team earns their money. Do you push through pain for a shot at Wimbledon glory, or play it safe with the hardcourt season and US Open around the corner?"
What’s Next: The Waiting Game
As of Tuesday morning, tournament organizers have not received any withdrawal notice. The All England Club’s chief medical officer, Dr. David Exley, confirmed Sinner would have access to their full medical facilities: "We provide world-class diagnostic and treatment options for all players. The decision ultimately rests with Jannik and his team."
Bookmakers have adjusted their odds accordingly, with Sinner drifting from 2/1 second favorite to 4/1 fourth favorite behind Alcaraz, Medvedev, and Djokovic. The tennis world now holds its breath for the MRI results, expected by Tuesday evening local time.
Should Sinner withdraw, it would mark another dramatic twist in a Wimbledon fortnight already full of surprises. For now, all eyes are on that scan—and whether one of tennis’ brightest young stars can continue his quest for a second Grand Slam title.