There are plenty of expectations on Jannik Sinner heading into this year’s US Open, especially after he came off a winning note by successfully defending his Wimbledon title. With Carlos Alcaraz returning to New York without any prior tournament practice, Sinner was initially expected to enter Flushing Meadows as one of the biggest favorites to repeat his 2024 heroics.

However, the Italian has his own concerns to address, particularly when it comes to his physical condition. Even at Wimbledon, Sinner struggled with dehydration and physical weakness. At the French Open, the world No. 1 battled severe cramping before eventually losing in the second round to Juan Manuel Cerúndolo.

Jannik Sinner Back on Court Ahead of Us Open

After Wimbledon, Sinner decided to skip the Canadian Open. He was then expected to compete in Cincinnati, but reports emerged about a knee problem that required his attention and ultimately led him to take additional time to recover.

Now, there appears to be an encouraging development surrounding his preparations for the US Open.Italian journalist Luigi Ansaloni of Gazzetta provided an update on Sinner’s training, revealing that the world No. 1 has been back on the practice courts in Monte Carlo.

“Sinner has trained well, the last two days at the Monte Carlo club. He trained in the afternoon, after having reserved the court for 2 hours at the club.” Sinner’s return to training is certainly a positive sign, particularly after concerns surrounding his knee.

While it does not necessarily confirm that the issue has completely disappeared, being able to complete extended practice sessions should give the Italian and his team some confidence heading into the final stretch before the US Open.

Sinner Has Extra Time to Prepare for US Open

Another important factor working in Sinner’s favor is the amount of time he has available to recover before the US Open. The Italian will not compete during the opening week of the buildup to Flushing Meadows, including in mixed doubles and several exhibition events.

That gives Sinner additional time to rest, recover, and gradually build up his workload before taking on what could be another intense fortnight in New York.

With Alcaraz returning from a lengthy injury layoff and Sinner now seemingly making progress with his own physical concerns, the two-time Grand Slam champion will hope that the extra preparation time allows him to arrive at the US Open in the best possible shape.