“Will Jannik Sinner’s Wrist Injury Cost Him the U.S. Open Final?”
Italy’s Jannik Sinner suffered a FOOSH injury during his U.S. Open semifinal win against England’s Jack Draper. FOOSH, short for “fall on an outstretched hand,” occurred in the second set of Sinner’s 7-5, 7-6 (3), 6-2 victory. While retreating to reach a ball, the 23-year-old fell backward, landing on his left hand. Although he won…
Italy’s Jannik Sinner suffered a FOOSH injury during his U.S. Open semifinal win against England’s Jack Draper. FOOSH, short for “fall on an outstretched hand,” occurred in the second set of Sinner’s 7-5, 7-6 (3), 6-2 victory. While retreating to reach a ball, the 23-year-old fell backward, landing on his left hand. Although he won the point, he immediately required treatment for his left wrist, receiving a massage from trainers, and later icing it post-match. Sinner, the top seed in this year’s U.S. Open men’s singles draw, now faces uncertainty regarding the impact of his wrist injury as he prepares to play American Taylor Fritz in the final.
FOOSH injuries are common because falling often leads people to instinctively brace themselves by extending their arm and hand. The resulting impact can affect the entire arm, from fingers to shoulder, causing anything from bruises to fractures or joint dislocations. It’s crucial to assess for fractures and dislocations after such a fall, as these require immediate medical attention to determine the need for a brace or surgery.
Fortunately, Sinner doesn’t appear to have suffered any fractures or dislocations, but soft tissue injuries, such as tendon strains or ligament sprains, could still impact the strength and mobility of his left wrist. Though he is right-handed, his left hand remains essential in various aspects of his game.
For his two-handed backhand, the left wrist is crucial for power and accuracy. Even in his one-handed forehand, the left hand plays a role in positioning the racket, tracking the ball, and completing the follow-through. Additionally, his left hand tosses the ball during serves and contributes to follow-through after contact, potentially influencing ball placement and serve effectiveness. As Sinner approaches the final against Fritz, the extent of his wrist’s recovery may be a key factor in the match.