Sinner targets Australian Open return as knee recovery continues

Jannik Sinner said he is targeting a return at the Australian Open as he recovers from a right knee injury, adding that he may play tournaments beforehand but will not rush his rehabilitation.

The Italian made the comments at a press conference in Milan on Tuesday. He said he was following medical protocols and working toward the Australian Open, while acknowledging that his participation would depend on his recovery. Sinner has not played since winning Wimbledon in July.

A late-December appearance at the Six Kings Slam exhibition in Saudi Arabia is one possible step before the Australian Open, but Sinner described it as a target rather than a confirmed return. He said playing matches beforehand could help his preparation after the extended absence. The event was postponed until late December because of the conflict in the Middle East.

Sinner said he had initially hoped to return sooner but changed course, and that he would rely on his medical team. He said taking care of his body was important because he hoped to continue playing for another 10 to 15 years. No medical clearance or confirmation of his Australian Open participation was reported.

The injury ended a season in which...