Jannik Sinner knee injury attributed to iliotibial band syndrome

Medical experts are evaluating the knee injury affecting tennis player Jannik Sinner. One leading hypothesis is iliotibial band syndrome, a condition often referred to as ‘runner’s knee.’

Physiatrist Andrea Bernetti explains that the condition involves inflammation and pain on the outer side of the knee caused by repetitive, high-intensity movements, such as the frequent changes of direction required in professional tennis. This type of injury is becoming more common due to demanding tournament schedules and the physical nature of play on hard courts. While surgery is an option, treatment is often conservative and requires significant recovery time.

To prevent such injuries, sports specialists emphasize the importance of managing training loads using tools like the Rate of Perceived Exertion (RPE) scale. Effective injury prevention in tennis involves structured warm-ups, mobility exercises for the hips and ankles, and gradual increases in training intensity to avoid mechanical distress.