Sinner’s Wimbledon Elbow: MRI Awaited

The top-ranked player in the world, Jannik Sinner, trained in an indoor setting on Tuesday while awaiting the findings from an MRI examination on his ailing shoulder.

Darren Cahill, Sinner’s trainer, communicated with ESPN, stating that the MRI results were still pending as of Tuesday evening. However, he expressed optimism as the three-time major champion engaged in some preparation before his quarterfinal encounter with Ben Shelton of the United States.

“He underwent the procedure earlier today, and because he dislikes missing a day of practice, he wanted to make contact with the ball,” Cahill explained. “Consequently, [coach] Simone [Vagnozzi] and I simply provided him with some balls from the basket.”

“It can be beneficial at times. The more you practice on grass with its unpredictable bounces, the more your timing can be affected… Agassi frequently employed this technique… We’ve incorporated it for several years now, so it wasn’t unusual.”

In Monday’s Round of 16 match against Grigor Dimitrov, Sinner requested a substantial medical timeout during the second set after experiencing an awkward fall on his right arm and subsequently received attention for his right elbow.

Dimitrov initially gained a 2-0 lead over Sinner, creating the possibility of a significant upset. However, Dimitrov was ultimately compelled to withdraw due to a partially torn pectoral muscle, which could potentially sideline him until the US Open. Sinner progressed via walkover.

Regardless of the tournament’s outcome, Sinner will retain his No. 1 ranking in the ATP Rankings. The 23-year-old Italian aims to secure his inaugural Wimbledon title, leaving the French Open as the sole major championship yet to be won. He has consistently reached the quarterfinals at the All-England Club for the past four years.

Sinner possesses a career record of 5-1 against Shelton, with their most recent clash occurring during the 2025 Australian Open semifinals. Sinner progressed onward towards his second successive title.