Key Takeaways
- Jannik Sinner halted his 2026 season to treat extra-articular tendinopathy in his right knee with conservative therapy.
- Toni Nadal advised Sinner to take things easy and not return until he has completely recovered.
- The Spanish coach believes Sinner has the calm mindset and time required to successfully resume his career after winning Wimbledon.
Toni Nadal reflects on recovery lessons for Jannik Sinner
Spanish coach Toni Nadal addressed the physical setback facing Jannik Sinner following the Italian player’s choice to step away from competition to treat his right knee. Sinner decided to pause his season to pursue conservative treatment for extra-articular tendinopathy.
Speaking to the Italian newspaper La Gazzetta dello Sport, Toni Nadal discussed the expectations and psychological demands surrounding a major rehabilitation period. Drawing from decades spent guiding 22-time Grand Slam winner Rafael Nadal through severe injuries—including congenital Müller-Weiss syndrome in the foot—the veteran mentor stressed that a return cannot be rushed.
Mindset and patience for the comeback
Toni Nadal highlighted that premier competitors understand that a comeback must only take place when the body is entirely healed. He suggested Sinner would likely target the Australian Open for his return, though much depends on physical preparedness and mental clarity. According to the coach, constant concern about a joint can hinder performance, but Sinner’s calm demeanor and thoughtful playing style will serve him well as he navigates the months ahead.
Offering guidance derived from his background with Rafael Nadal, Toni Nadal remarked, “you have to take things easy.” He noted that Sinner remains early in his career with considerable time ahead, urging him to ensure his physical issues are resolved prior to returning to the tour.
The coach added that maintaining optimism during rehabilitation will enable Sinner to pick up where he left off, noting that the Italian concluded his recent run by claiming the Wimbledon title.
Jannik Sinner in 2026
At the moment ranked no.1, Sinner played his last match on the 12th of July when he defeated world no.2 Alexander Zverev 6-7(7) 7-6(2) 6-3 6-4 in the final in Wimbledon to win his 31st career title.
During this season the Italian achieved an overall 44-3 record. The Italian conquered 6 titles in 2026 in Indian Wells, Miami, Monte-Carlo, Madrid, Rome and Wimbledon.
