Jannik Sinner Targets December Comeback At Saudi Arabia's Six Kings Slam

Italian tennis star Jannik Sinner is targeting a return to competitive action in late December at the Six Kings Slam exhibition in Saudi Arabia as he prepares for the 2027 Australian Open following a prolonged absence due to a right knee injury.

The 25-year-old has not played since July 2026, when he defeated Germany's Alexander Zverev in the Wimbledon final. He subsequently withdrew from the US Open because of a right knee problem. Persistent injury concerns delayed his recovery, forcing him to announce last month that his 2026 season was over.

Speaking at a sponsor event in Milan on Tuesday, Sinner said his primary objective was to be ready for the Australian Open. He is also considering participating in a couple of tournaments before the Grand Slam to regain match fitness.

However, the former World No. 1 stressed that he would not rush his recovery, warning that returning too early could lead to more serious problems. He said he was following the prescribed medical protocols and working hard every day to achieve his comeback target.

The Six Kings Slam, where Sinner won the second edition last year, is among the possible events for his return. The exhibition tournament, which offers substantial prize money but no ATP ranking points, was postponed until late December because of the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.

Sinner acknowledged that the tournament's schedule would depend on the broader situation and was beyond the players' control. He added that playing a few matches before travelling to Australia would be helpful after such a long break from competition.

Meanwhile, Zverev recently took over the World No. 1 ranking, ending Sinner's 95-week reign at the top of men's tennis. Sinner's return will ultimately depend on his recovery and ability to compete without risking further injury.