Jannik Sinner's Davis Cup Role Still Unclear
Jannik Sinner has returned to training, while Italy waits to decide his Davis Cup Finals role.
Training begins again
Jannik Sinner is back practicing after his knee problem halted his season. He last played when he defeated Alexander Zverev in the Wimbledon final to secure a second straight title. Since then, Sinner has withdrawn from the Canadian Open, Cincinnati Open, and US Open. His plans for Beijing and Shanghai remain uncertain.
The return has been measured. Sinner is No. 1 and has gone 9-1 across his last ten completed matches, while Zverev, No. 3, has the same recent record. Those results show the level Sinner held before the absence. They do not set a date for his next match.
Volandri outlines the approach
Filippo Volandri says Sinner has trained for about 10 days. The work has increased gradually after a lengthy break from competition. Italy's captain believes Sinner is progressing well. There is no confirmed return event.
Recovery leads the decision. Volandri expects Sinner to regain the form he carried into the London final, even after time away from the tour. Sinner's recent 9-1 run provides useful context for that confidence, but knee fitness remains the immediate concern. The captain will not rush him back.
Italy's Davis Cup decision
Italy has drawn South Korea in the Davis Cup Finals quarterfinal. Bologna will host the event from November 24 through November 29. Volandri plans to speak with his players nearer the competition. Sinner's availability is still open.
Italy managed without him last year. Matteo Berrettini and Flavio Cobolli led the team to the title, showing the squad has other options for a difficult tie. Sinner also featured in Italy's winning campaigns in 2023 and 2024. His experience would help, but only if he is fully ready.
A possible Spain final
Spain sits on Italy's side of the draw. It will face Austria in its quarterfinal, leaving open the prospect of a final between Italy and Carlos Alcaraz's team. Both nations are seeded near the top. Neither can assume a place in the final.
Sinner's health comes first. Volandri has said the No. 1 player needs to reach 100% before team talks settle his role in Bologna. Spain has its own depth, including Rafael Jodar after his Davis Cup debut against Chile. For Italy, selection can wait until Sinner's training gives a clearer answer.
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