Overview
- World No. 1 Jannik Sinner announced Friday that he will miss the 2026 US Open because recent on‑court sessions in Monte Carlo showed his right knee still needs more time to recover.
- Carlos Alcaraz confirmed on Thursday that he will return to compete at Flushing Meadows after a four‑month layoff for a right wrist injury, making him a leading contender in Sinner’s absence.
- The USTA will adjust seedings and the main draw ahead of next week’s announcement, and Spain’s Carlos Taberner has been named as the direct main‑draw replacement for Sinner.
- Sinner had withdrawn from the Canadian Open and Cincinnati earlier as part of his treatment plan that included specialist checks and shockwave therapy in Turin before resuming practice in Monte Carlo.
- The changes shift the tournament narrative by opening the men’s field to other contenders, highlighting the trade‑offs players face between rushing back for a Grand Slam and prioritizing long‑term health.