Injury wave casts shadow over US Open as stars sit out
The US Open begins amid a wave of injuries affecting top players. Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner, who split last year's Grand Slams, are among those missing significant tournaments in 2026. The trend has raised concerns within the sport.
The start of the US Open arrives with an unusual cloud of absences, as a wave of injuries has thinned the field of its most prominent contenders. Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner, who between them claimed all four Grand Slam titles last season, are both sidelined from major events in 2026, leaving the year's final major without its two biggest draws.
The situation has sparked unease across the sport, with officials and observers questioning the toll of the modern calendar. With the sport's brightest stars struggling to stay healthy, the tournament's competitive balance shifts, offering opportunity to lower-ranked players while raising concerns about the long-term durability of the game's leading generation.
This pattern of high-profile injuries could reshape how fans and broadcasters view the tennis season, as marquee matchups become less predictable. Casual viewers may lose interest without star power, while sponsors and networks could face financial ripple effects. For players, it may intensify debates about scheduling and recovery, potentially influencing how future seasons are structured.