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Jessica Pegula and Madison Keys react as Jannik Sinner ends 2026 season early because of injury

World No. 1 Jannik Sinner has ended his 2026 season early after withdrawing from the Shanghai Masters due to injury, marking the first time since his Wimbledon title win in July that he has stepped onto a court.

The Italian’s campaign, which included six victories in nine tournaments, saw him dominate the ATP Tour with five consecutive Masters 1000 titles—a record stretch—but his form faltered at key moments, including a five-set loss at Roland Garros that derailed his chances of completing a Career Grand Slam. Despite his early exit, Sinner’s season remains impressive, with his second straight Wimbledon crown bringing his Grand Slam total to five, just two behind rival Carlos Alcaraz’s tally.

Meanwhile, WTA stars Jessica Pegula and Madison Keys weighed in on Sinner’s injury, noting his unorthodox movement as a potential factor in his struggles. Pegula compared his agility to Novak Djokovic’s, calling his on-court mobility ‘unlike anyone else’s,’ while Keys highlighted the physical toll of his style.

Both acknowledged the harsh reality of elite tennis, where even the most dominant players can face unexpected setbacks, as Sinner now prepares to hand over the world No. 1 ranking to Alexander Zverev before year’s end.

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