Jannik Sinner withdraws from Shanghai Masters due to knee injury

World No 1 Jannik Sinner has officially withdrawn from the Rolex Shanghai Masters. The decision comes as the Italian continues to manage a persistent knee issue that previously forced him to skip his title defense at the China Open in Beijing.

Sinner has not competed since his Wimbledon title match against Alexander Zverev in July. Having previously missed the US Open, he noted that he was simply not ready to compete at the required level.

I always enjoy playing in front of the Shanghai fans and I'm very sorry that I won't be able to do so next week. Thank you for all your support. I'm looking forward to seeing you again next year! Jannik Sinner

The extended absence has had a significant impact on the Race to Turin rankings. Alexander Zverev has moved 800 points clear of Sinner, denting the Italian's hopes of finishing the 2026 season as the year-end No 1.

The Shanghai Masters is scheduled to begin on October 7. Other top contenders, including Alexander Zverev, Carlos Alcaraz, and Ben Shelton, are expected to feature as they battle for positions in the season-ending rankings.