After finishing 2025 on a 15-match winning streak, Jannik Sinner’s 2026 has gotten off to his worst start to a season since 2023.
Not only did the Italian fail in his bid for an Australian Open three-peat, losing to Novak Djokovic in the semifinals, in a matchup he had won all five of their previous meetings, but he also continued to perform below his usual standard in Doha, where he crashed out in the quarterfinals in a three-set battle against Jakub Mensik.
Doha Collapse Raises Concerns
What proved most shocking in Doha was how the match unfolded. After dropping the first set in a tiebreak, Sinner appeared to seize control, winning the second set dominantly.
Just when it looked like he would carry that momentum into the decider, he was immediately broken to start the third set. From there, the Italian struggled to make inroads on return — something rarely seen in recent seasons. He was later broken again while serving to stay in the match, handing Mensik the biggest win of his career in terms of ranking.
“The Work Will Pay Off”
Despite the setback, Jannik Sinner appeared composed, even though he was clearly disappointed by an early than usual exit in his first-ever appearance in Doha. When asked about his feelings after the match and what lies ahead, the Italian offered a measured response.
“It was a match that went the way it went. There was no disaster, I’m calm because we’re working to win as many matches as possible. I’m relaxed, now we’re starting again with Indian Wells and Miami. I’m sure the work will pay off.”
What’s Next for Sinner?
Despite the slow start, the season is far from lost. Sinner’s immediate focus shifts to the Masters 1000 events at Indian Wells and Miami, followed by the clay-court swing.
However, his primary objective is already clear: the French Open. In Paris, Sinner will aim to complete his Career Grand Slam, just like Carlos Alcaraz did in Melbourne this year.
While 2026 has not begun as he or his team expected, there is still plenty of tennis left to be played. Sinner remains one of the biggest threats on tour and continues to stand as the chief rival to Alcaraz as their rivalry enters what could be a defining stretch.
Main Photo Credit: Mike Frey-Imagn Images
