The US Open 2026 is facing a major challenge as top players continue to withdraw due to injuries. World number one Jannik Sinner was the latest to pull out, citing a lingering right knee injury that has kept him sidelined since earlier this month. The Italian star, who won his fifth Grand Slam title at Wimbledon last month, skipped both the Cincinnati Open and Canadian Open as part of his recovery process.
Sinner expressed regret over his decision in a statement on X, explaining he still needs more time to heal. His absence leaves the tournament without one of its biggest names.
Adding to the lineup changes, former world number four Jake Draper also withdrew just hours before Sinner’s announcement. The British player has struggled with injuries this year and hasn’t competed in any Grand Slams since 2024. He recently returned to action at the Canada Open but lost early matches.
Another notable withdrawal is Holger Rune, who will miss the US Open due to a serious left Achilles injury sustained last year. The Danish player, now ranked 102, has not played an official match since October and plans to return later in the season.
With these withdrawals, 16 players have now skipped the tournament, including high-profile names like Alejandro Davidovich Fokina and Victoria Mboko. This leaves Carlos Alcaraz as the highest-ranked player and one of the favourites to win, despite his recent injury issues.