ATP Brief: August 26, 2026
Sinner Withdraws from US Open; Alcaraz Returns After Four-Month Layoff
The US Open field underwent seismic shifts Tuesday as world No. 1 Jannik Sinner withdrew from the tournament due to a persistent right knee injury that has plagued him since his Wimbledon title run. The Italian's absence opens the draw dramatically just days before main draw action begins August 30, eliminating the top seed and reshuffling championship odds across the board. Meanwhile, Carlos Alcaraz confirmed his return to competition after missing four months with a wrist injury, bringing the Spanish star back into Grand Slam contention despite the extended layoff. The tournament also announced record prize money totaling $108 million—a 20% increase from 2025—with singles champions earning $5.5 million each, underscoring the event's continued financial growth.
In Winston-Salem, Martin Damm delivered the upset of the week by dispatching Daniil Medvedev 7-5, 6-3, handing the former world No. 1 his fourth loss in five matches. Medvedev jokingly suggested afterward that "maybe I should start a career in pickleball," acknowledging his recent struggles as the US Open looms. The result continues a troubling hardcourt slide for the 2021 US Open champion, raising questions about his form heading into Flushing Meadows. Arthur Fils's Cincinnati Masters title has lifted him to a career-high No. 11 in the latest rankings, positioning the young Frenchman just outside the top ten ahead of the season's final major.
Roger Federer delighted fans Monday night with his return to Arthur Ashe Stadium for exhibition play, defeating Andy Roddick 6-3 in singles before partnering John McEnroe to take down Roddick and Andre Agassi 7-5 in doubles. The five-time US Open champion's appearance provided a nostalgic prelude to tournament week, reminding the tennis world of the rivalries and showmanship that defined an era.
Sources: SI · Bleacher Report · Tennis Majors · ATP Tour · ESPN