Jannik Sinner has shared his “goal” to play the 2027 Australian Open as he admitted he initially set an “impossible” target for his return from injury.

The five-time Grand Slam champion has been sidelined due to a right knee injury since he beat Alexander Zverev in the Wimbledon final in July.

Having already missed the North American summer hard-court season and ruled himself out of the Asian swing, Sinner confirmed on 6 October he would not play again in 2026.

While Sinner has not shared details about the specific nature of his knee injury, Sky Sport Italy have reported that the issue he is dealing with is iliotibial band syndrome (ITBS).

Speaking at a press conference for the ‘Be Like Sinner’ event in Milan on Tuesday, Sinner issued an update.

“The goal is to go to ​Australia; I hope to get there, and perhaps play a few tournaments beforehand,” said the world No 2.

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“Right now, ⁠I need to follow the protocols without rushing things. I have a lot of faith in the ​process, and I’m working toward that objective.

“Initially, we had an impossible goal for my return in mind, so ​we took a different path. I’m a tennis player, not a doctor, so my only option is to trust them.

“I miss playing tennis. Right now, however, it is crucial that I take care of my body, because I want to keep ​playing for another 10 to 15 years.”

Sinner added: “I’m fine. We’re doing everything we can — and more — to get back on the court as soon as possible.

“I have a great team with many experts to help us come back stronger.”