Jannik Sinner rules out playing at several tournaments as fitness claim made before French Open

Men’s singles world No.1 Jannik Sinner has explained how he could miss several tournaments despite winning all five Masters 1000 events so far in 2026.

Since the start of the year, Sinner has won all five Masters 1000 events — clinching the ‘Career Golden Masters’ after winning nine overall — at Indian Wells, the Miami Open, the Monte-Carlo Masters, the Madrid Open and, most recently, the Italian Open, with the 24-year-old defeating Norway’s Casper Ruud in the final on Sunday (May 17).

Despite adding another trophy to his collection, Sinner’s tournament was not without issues, as he was forced to overcome what appeared to be cramp during his semi-final win against Daniil Medvedev — something the Russian complained to the umpire about, as the rules state treatment can only be provided for an injury rather than cramp, which is considered a fitness issue.

Given his Rome triumph was his fifth Masters 1000 tournament victory this year, there were suggestions that the 24-year-old could go on to win all nine events this season, with the Canadian Open, Cincinnati Masters, Shanghai Masters and Paris Masters still to come later this year.

READ MORE: How much Jannik Sinner has earned in prize money this year after achieving SIX records in Italy

However, when pressed on the topic, Sinner said he was focusing on each tournament as it comes.

He said: “We have to go tournament by tournament. The most important thing is to be in good physical condition because otherwise, you won't get anywhere. Thinking about winning all nine Masters 1000 events is unrealistic.

“It’s impossible to maintain this level throughout the season.”

The world No.1 also hinted that he may not play any grass-court events before the third major of the year at Wimbledon.

“I don’t think it’s realistic. It’s not possible to continue playing like I am now for the entire season.”

When asked what his priority is ahead of the French Open, he explained: “The priority now is to recover as much as possible in the next two or three days. There will not be much training, for sure. Regarding tennis, none. As for the physical aspect, we will see. I want to spend some time with my family at this moment, disconnect from tennis, and from Thursday, I will be in Paris to prepare. Now the important thing is to rest.”

Next up for Sinner, who is currently on a 29-match winning streak, is the French Open, with his biggest rival, Carlos Alcaraz, already ruled out with a wrist injury, seemingly increasing the Italian’s chances of securing a fifth Grand Slam title.

The Roland Garros men’s draw gets underway on May 24.

What is the Masters 1000 schedule for the rest of 2026?

· Canadian Open — 2–13 August 2026

· Cincinnati Open — 13–23 August 2026

· Shanghai Masters — 7–18 October 2026

· Paris Masters — 2–8 November 2026