Jannik Sinner’s withdrawal from the US Open 2026 has changed the men’s singles draw.
The World No. 1 has pulled out because of a right knee injury. His absence is a major blow to the tournament.
It also gives Carlos Alcaraz a big opportunity in New York.
Alcaraz is returning to Grand Slam action after missing time with a wrist injury. Sinner has been one of his biggest rivals in recent years.
The pair have developed one of tennis’ best rivalries. Alcaraz currently leads their ATP head-to-head record 10-7.
Their matches are often decided by small margins. They also met in three straight Grand Slam finals in 2025. Alcaraz won the French Open and US Open, while Sinner claimed Wimbledon.
Sinner also beat Alcaraz in the 2026 Monte-Carlo Masters final. He won 7-6, 6-3.
Carlos Alcaraz Gets a Clearer Path
Sinner’s absence means Alcaraz will not have to face his biggest modern rival in New York.
Their famous 2022 US Open quarter-final showed how difficult their battles can be. Alcaraz won after more than five hours. He also saved a match point before winning at 2:50 AM.
Now, Alcaraz has extra breathing room as he works his way back from injury.
The draw has also changed at the top. Alexander Zverev moves into the No. 1 seed position, while Alcaraz becomes the No. 2 seed.
Novak Djokovic will also see a bigger opportunity. The Serbian can now target another Grand Slam title without having to face Sinner.
Other contenders will also believe they have a better chance of going deep in New York.
However, Sinner’s withdrawal does not end the rivalry. He remains the World No. 1 and will be determined to return strongly after recovering from his knee injury.
For now, his absence has made the US Open 2026 men’s draw far more open and unpredictable.
