MASON, Ohio — In a stunning turn of events that has sent shockwaves through the tennis world just days before the final Grand Slam of the year, Italian star Jannik Sinner has officially withdrawn from the 2024 US Open. The announcement comes on the heels of a heartbreaking retirement during the final of the Western & Southern Open in Cincinnati, where Sinner was forced to stop play against Novak Djokovic due to a severe right hip injury.
The withdrawal was confirmed by the United States Tennis Association (USTA), which named two replacements for the main draw. Argentina's Diego Schwartzman, a former top-10 player, and Belgium's Zizou Bergs have been granted entry into the tournament based on their ranking. Sinner’s absence creates a massive void in the bottom half of the draw and dramatically alters the landscape of the championship.
A Devastating End in Cincinnati
The scene on Monday in Ohio was one of palpable disappointment. Sinner, the world No. 2 and newly crowned Australian Open champion, was locked in a grueling battle with the legendary Novak Djokovic. After dropping a tight first set 7-5, the Italian began to experience significant discomfort in his right hip. He received a medical timeout and treatment early in the second set but was visibly hampered, struggling with his movement and serve. After falling behind 1-4, a despondent Sinner approached the chair umpire and his opponent to concede the match.
Speaking to the press afterward, a clearly emotional Sinner explained his difficult decision: "It's a very tough moment for me, honestly. I felt a little bit my hip. We have to see what's coming. I'm obviously very sad, but health comes first. I retired more for precaution. I don't know yet what I have. I have to check it."
The timing of the injury could not be worse. Sinner has been the most consistent and dominant player on the ATP Tour throughout 2024, compiling a remarkable 49-7 match record. His ascent to the world No. 2 ranking and his maiden major title in Melbourne had positioned him as a co-favorite alongside Carlos Alcaraz and Novak Djokovic to lift the trophy in New York.
The Medical Prognosis and Recovery Timeline
Subsequent medical evaluations in Italy revealed the extent of the damage. While not a long-term tear, the diagnosis is a significant inflammation and strain of the hip joint. The required recovery period, which involves complete rest followed by intensive physiotherapy, unfortunately, directly overlaps with the two-week duration of the US Open, making participation impossible.
Sinner's team released an official statement detailing the situation: "Following further medical exams and consultations in Italy, Jannik Sinner will be unable to compete at the US Open this year. The treatment and recovery time for his right hip injury will not allow for sufficient preparation and readiness to compete at the highest level. His focus is now on rehabilitation and returning to the court as soon as he is fully healthy."
This type of injury is particularly concerning for a player whose game is built upon explosive movement and powerful groundstrokes generated from a strong lower-body base. The hip is a critical joint for the torque required in a modern tennis swing, and rushing back from such an issue could risk a more severe, chronic problem.
Impact on the US Open Draw
Sinner's withdrawal sends a ripple effect throughout the tournament bracket. As the second seed, he was projected to be a central figure in the bottom half of the draw, which is also expected to feature Daniil Medvedev and Alexander Zverev. His absence now creates a more open path for other contenders and represents a massive opportunity for players in his section.
The immediate beneficiaries are the "lucky losers" who gain entry. Diego Schwartzman, a feisty veteran and crowd favorite in New York, gets a chance to extend his final season on tour after announcing his impending retirement. Zizou Bergs of Belgium, a talented player who has been knocking on the door of the top 100, receives a precious main draw spot at a major, which can be a career-changing opportunity.
The withdrawal also has significant ranking implications. Sinner will be unable to defend the 720 points he earned from reaching the 2023 US Open Round of 16, where he lost to Alexander Zverev. This will likely see him lose his No. 2 ranking to the eventual champion or finalist in New York, provided they are Carlos Alcaraz or Novak Djokovic.
Reactions from the Tennis World
The news was met with an outpouring of support and disappointment from fellow players and analysts. Novak Djokovic, his opponent in the ill-fated final, expressed his sympathy: "I feel for Jannik. He is an incredible player and a great guy. I know how much he wanted to do well in New York. I wish him a speedy recovery. The sport needs him healthy."
Tennis legend and analyst John McEnroe highlighted the broader impact on the event itself: "It's a brutal blow for the US Open. Sinner is one of the new pillars of the game. Fans were salivating at the potential matchups with Alcaraz or a rematch with Djokovic. It deflates some of the excitement, without a doubt."
The situation also raises questions about the packed summer hardcourt schedule. The quick transition from the physical battles of the Olympics in Paris to the back-to-back Masters 1000 events in Canada and Cincinnati has long been a point of contention, with many players arguing it creates an unsustainable risk of injury before a major.
Looking Ahead for Sinner
For Jannik Sinner, the focus shifts entirely to recovery. The immediate goal will be to heal completely and avoid any setbacks. The remainder of the season still offers prestigious events, including the Asian swing and the ATP Finals in Turin, Italy. A healthy return for his home tournament in November would be a primary target.
His coach, Darren Cahill, known for his pragmatic and long-term approach, is likely to prioritize health over ranking points. In a social media post, Cahill stated: "Tough times. But Jannik's character is stronger than any setback. We will be back, and we will be better. Patience and hard work now."
The 2024 season, despite this setback, remains a monumental success for the 22-year-old. His achievements this year include:
- Winning his first Grand Slam at the Australian Open
- Reaching the World No. 2 ranking
- Capturing Masters 1000 titles in Rotterdam and Toronto
- Leading Italy to its first Davis Cup title in decades (end of 2023)
While the bright lights of Flushing Meadows will dim without his presence, the consensus within tennis is that this is merely a pause, not a stop, in the career of a future champion. The hope for fans and the sport alike is that Jannik Sinner returns to the court soon, his powerful game and quiet intensity once again thrilling audiences around the world.