​Jan 24, 2025; Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; Jannik Sinner of Italy plays a backhand during his match against Ben Shelton of United States of America in the semifinals of the men’s singles at the 2025 Australian Open at Melbourne Park. Mandatory Credit: M… | Source: Lastwordonsports.com – Jim SmithIn a somber video message posted on social media Tuesday, world No. 1 Jannik Sinner announced that his 2026 tennis season is officially over as he prioritizes long-term recovery from a lingering right knee issue.The 25-year-old Italian, speaking directly to fans, said: “Hello everyone, I would like to give you a little update. Me together with the doctors have decided that I need a course of treatment for my knee, which means that the 2026 season is officially over.”Sinner also reflected on his special memories in Turin, where he has enjoyed some of the biggest moments of his career at the ATP Finals. This year, however, will be different.“I also need to think about my long-term career,” he said, making it clear that his priority is now ensuring he can return at full strength rather than forcing his way through the final weeks of the season.His absence rules him out of the Six Kings Slam, Vienna, the Paris Masters, the ATP Finals, and the Davis Cup Finals after he earlier announced his withdrawal from the Shanghai Masters. His last competitive appearance came in the Wimbledon final on July 12, when he defeated Alexander Zverev to claim his fifth Grand Slam title and first major of the season.The knee problem, described as tendinopathy, has already kept Sinner out of the Canadian Open, Cincinnati, the UUS Open, Beijing and Shanghai. Conservative treatment remains the plan, with no surgery currently expected and the 2027 Australian Open targeted for his return.It is a disappointing ending to a season in which Sinner had looked almost untouchable early on, winning the first five Masters 1000 events of 2026 before injury brought his momentum to a halt.Jul 12, 2026; London, United Kingdom; Jannik Sinner of Italy at the on court interview after winning the men’s singles final against Alexander Zverev of Germany on day 14 at All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club. Mandatory Credit: Susan Mullane-Imagn ImagesThe Last WordSinner’s shutdown could have major consequences at the top of the rankings.Alexander Zverev is now on course to secure the year-end No. 1 ranking for the first time. With Sinner unable to compete, the Italian cannot defend the ranking points he earned during this part of last season, giving Zverev an increasingly clear path to overtake him.Carlos Alcaraz remains the other major threat. The Spaniard can make a push of his own by maximizing his opportunities in the closing tournaments, particularly in Paris and Turin. If Alcaraz puts together a strong finish, the race could remain alive deep into the ATP Finals.For Zverev, however, the equation is now largely in his hands. The 2021 ATP Finals champion has already proved he ca