Sinner says he’s closing in on full fitness

Top seed Jannik Sinner confirmed on Friday that he is returning rapidly to full fitness as the Sunday US Open start bears down.

The world No. 1 was able to play only five games in this week’s Cincinnati final before quitting with illness to hand Carlos Alcaraz the title at the tune-up event.

But three days later, the Italian said he is showing signs of life as he prepares to begin his title defence in New York.

“Physically, I feel good. I’m almost fully recovered, although not 100 per cent, but we hope to be ready in a couple of days. So everything should go well for the tournament.”

But he warned: “The fever is over, but I’m still not in full health. First of all, I’m very happy to be back here. It’s a great tournament.

“Obviously, it’s the last Grand Slam of the season, so, naturally, motivation is very high.”

Sinner will start his Flushing Meadows campaign against Czech Vit Kopri
While Sinner and Alcaraz have developed a high-profile rivalry at the top of the sport, the 24-year-old believes there could always be room for another rival – so far unsighted

“If we don’t keep improving, the others will catch up. It’s just a matter of time. So, what I’m trying to do is understand where I can improve.
“There are certain areas of the game we can definitely work on. From my point of view, that’s positive.

“It only makes me a better tennis player and prepares me for the future. Having rivalries is great.

“For now, Carlos and I share some big trophies, but things can change. There are great, great players out there, and the road to the final is very difficult.”