World No. 1 Jannik Sinner will make a final decision Thursday on whether his right knee has recovered enough to compete at the Shanghai Masters, according to reports from Italy confirmed by Sky Sports. The Italian has been recovering from an extra-articular tendon inflammation of his right knee sustained after his Wimbledon title win in July.
Why the delay matters
Sinner has been absent from the circuit for more than two months, missing the entire North American swing including the US Open and portions of the Asian tour. The injury, initially thought to be minor, forced him to withdraw from Beijing rather than risk further damage during the conditioning phase of his return. His team has prioritised caution over rushing back to competition.
Recent progress signals possible return
Training sessions in Monte Carlo have proceeded without setbacks and shown positive signs of recovery, according to Italian reports. Sinner underwent rehabilitation and on-court training after rest and treatment at J Medical in Turin. If he feels fit enough, he will travel to Shanghai for the Masters 1000 starting October 5; if any risk remains, his team will defer his return to the European tour that concludes the season.
Tour implications
Sinner's continued absence has opened the door for Alexander Zverev to threaten his world No. 1 ranking. The decision Thursday will clarify whether the Italian will defend his standing in Shanghai or wait for the European events.