“My hip has been bothering me this week and is getting more and more painful.” With these words Jannik Sinner explains his decision to withdraw from the Madrid tournament, where he was expected in the quarter-finals against Felix Auger-Alliassime.
Many see this as a sign of caution ahead of two crucial events: the Rome International and Roland Garros in Paris. However, Sinner's words suggest that the problem with his right hip is more serious than it seems and may not resolve quickly.
Sinner expresses his disappointment at not being able to play the “next match here in Madrid” and clarifies that the decision to retire was taken on the advice of doctors: “We decided that it is better not to play any further and not to make the situation worse.”
This means that Sinner, and especially his hip, needs rest. This is also because, after Monte Carlo, the South Tyrolean had decided to focus on physical work in the gym to best prepare for Rome and Paris, even at the cost of skipping Madrid. The Italian tennis player concludes by saying: “In the next few days I will do more tests and follow the specialists’ advice for recovery.”
This statement leaves some concerns: Sinner has about ten days to recover before his debut at the Foro Italico. There is a risk that the problem with his right hip could recur during the Rome International. The South Tyrolean has already shown that he can play despite the pain, but to be successful in Italy or at Roland Garros, he must be in perfect shape.
Article published on May 2, 2024 - 06:55 pm