Djokovic returns to Cincinnati Masters with Sinner, Alcaraz absent

Novak Djokovic is set to return to competition at the 2026 Cincinnati Masters, marking his first appearance since a grueling semifinal loss at Wimbledon. The 39-year-old Serbian, a 24-time Grand Slam champion, arrives in Ohio with a clear goal: to secure a Masters 1000 title for the first time in three years and build momentum ahead of the US Open, where he will chase a historic 25th major title.

The tournament presents a significant opportunity for Djokovic, as top rivals Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz have both withdrawn. Sinner is sidelined with a knee injury, while Alcaraz has not competed since a wrist injury sustained before the French Open. Their absence has opened the draw, making Djokovic, the third seed, a leading contender alongside world No. 2 Alexander Zverev.

Despite the favorable field, Djokovic faces a demanding path. He receives a first-round bye and will open against either Thiago Agustin Tirante or Jan Choinski. The draw quickly intensifies, with potential third-round meetings against Jack Draper or Matteo Arnaldi, both of whom have recently defeated him. A fourth-round clash with Jakub Mensik, who beat Djokovic in the 2025 Miami Open final, is also...