Novak Djokovic has backed Jannik Sinner’s decision to shut down his 2026 season as the world number one continues his recovery from a knee injury, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing long-term career longevity over a rushed return, KFGO reported.
Zverev Eyes Top Ranking as ATP Finals Race Reshuffles
- Alexander Zverev now holds a clear path to finish the year at the top of the world rankings following Sinner’s extended absence.
- Hubert Hurkacz prepares to face Djokovic in Shanghai, while the broader ATP Finals race in Turin sees a complete reshuffle of top seed dynamics.
Sinner Misses Remaining Season After July Wimbledon Win
Jannik Sinner has not played a competitive match since defeating Alexander Zverev in the Wimbledon final on July 12. The 25-year-old world number one missed the entire North American hardcourt swing, the U.S. Open, and the ongoing Asian swing.
The decision to shut down the remainder of his campaign means Sinner will also miss the European indoor season and the ATP Finals in Turin. Sinner lifted the trophy at the ATP Finals in each of the last two years.
His absence directly opens the door for Alexander Zverev to claim the year-end number one spot in the world rankings. Djokovic, speaking to reporters in Shanghai on Thursday, expressed full support for the Italian’s conservative recovery timeline.
Djokovic on the Mental Hurdle of Long Layoffs
“At the same time, he has to think long-term,” Djokovic told reporters in Shanghai. “That’s smart because as someone that always tried to have the big picture in my mind, I really support that kind of thinking and mindset. It’s important that you give yourself more years to your career, so you have more chances to accomplish all of your objectives.”
Djokovic returned from his own lengthy injury layoff following elbow surgery in 2018. The 39-year-old Serbian noted that the challenge of returning from major surgery extends far beyond physical rehabilitation.
“Of course, physically, if you’re ready, you’re ready,” Djokovic said. “लेकिन then it’s mental. You know, you’re on the court and you’re thinking, ‘Am I really completely healed and free to make this run’.”
| Player | Current Status | Key Missed/Upcoming Tournaments |
|---|---|---|
| Jannik Sinner | Out for remainder of 2026 | U.S. Open, Asian Swing, ATP Finals |
| Alexander Zverev | Active / Rankings Contender | Competing for year-end No. 1 |
| Novak Djokovic | Active (China Open Champion) | Shanghai Masters vs. Hubert Hurkacz |
Djokovic Faces Hurkacz After Winning China Open Title
Reporting for the story was handled by Karan Prashant Saxena in Bengaluru and edited by Ken Ferris.
