Former ATP doctor discusses Jannik Sinner's knee injury

Jannik Sinner has withdrawn from the Cincinnati Masters 1000 tournament due to a right knee injury. The Italian player stated that despite working with his medical team, he is not yet ready to compete. He is now focusing his efforts on preparing for the upcoming US Open.

Dr. Giovanni Di Giacomo, a former ATP Tour doctor, suggested that the injury likely stems from an overload syndrome. He noted that even elite champions are susceptible to issues involving ligaments, tendons, and cartilage. Di Giacomo indicated that the decision to withdraw was likely a calculated move to avoid further risk and ensure Sinner is in peak condition for the US Open.

This withdrawal follows a pattern for Sinner, who has recently bypassed warm-up events before major tournaments. He reached the Australian Open final earlier this year without playing a tournament in Australia, and he won the Wimbledon title without competing in any grass court matches beforehand.

Reflecting on his career, Di Giacomo noted that overload issues have existed for the 33 years he has been involved with the ATP. While he observed that training, monitoring, and prevention methods have improved significantly since the nineties, the fundamental physical challenges for players remain. He also mentioned that individual genetics play a role in how athletes handle these stresses.

Sinner's absence in Cincinnati comes at a difficult time for the US Open. With both him and Carlos Alcaraz dealing with injuries, the final Grand Slam of the season faces the potential absence of two of its most prominent players.