World number one Jannik Sinner said Friday he is “not 100% yet” but expects to be at full strength for the launch of his US Open title defense when the final Grand Slam of 2025 gets underway.

The Italian retired because of illness while trailing Carlos Alcaraz 5-0 in the first set of the Cincinnati Open final on Monday and pulled out of the Open’s new-look mixed doubles competition on Tuesday and Wednesday.

Speaking to reporters at the Billie Jean King National Tennis Center at Flushing Meadows on Friday, Sinner said he was highly motivated and on the mend two days before singles action was slated to start.

“So physically, I feel good,” said Sinner, who is expected to play his first match against Czech Vit Kopriva on Monday.

“You know, I have recovered mostly, not 100% yet, but we are

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