How Jannik Sinner’s FOOSH Injury Could Affect the U.S. Open Final

FOOSH. That’s not the sound of Jannik Sinner’s tennis serve. FOOSH stands for “fall on an outstretched hand.” It’s a common injury that happens when someone falls and lands on their hand. This is exactly what happened to Italy’s Sinner during his semifinal match at the U.S. Open against England’s Jack Draper. The big question now is: how will Sinner’s injured left wrist affect his game against American Taylor Fritz in the men’s singles final on Sunday?

The Injury in the Semifinal

Sinner hurt his wrist in the second set of his 7-5, 7-6 (3), 6-2 win over Draper. He fell backwards while reaching for a ball and landed on his outstretched left hand. Although he won the point, he immediately started clutching his wrist in pain. He got treatment from trainers, including a massage, and was seen icing his wrist after the match.

FOOSH injuries are common because people instinctively reach out with their hands when they fall. This can send strong forces through the hand, wrist, forearm, elbow, and shoulder, which might cause damage.

What to Know About FOOSH Injuries

FOOSH injuries can range from minor bruises and sprains to more serious fractures and dislocations. After such an injury, it’s important to check the entire arm for any fractures or dislocations. These serious issues need prompt medical care to decide if a brace or surgery is needed.

It seems like Sinner hasn’t broken or dislocated anything. But the FOOSH injury could still affect his performance against Fritz. Even without fractures, a soft tissue injury like a tendon strain or ligament sprain could weaken his left wrist.

Why the Left Hand and Wrist Matter

Sinner is right-handed, so an injury to his dominant wrist would be worse. But his left hand and wrist still matter. His two-handed backhand needs his left hand for power and control. An injured left wrist could make it harder for him to hit strong and accurate backhands.

Even with his one-handed forehand, the left hand is involved. It helps hold the racket when waiting for the ball, tracks the ball, and helps with the follow-through. An injured left wrist could affect all these actions.

His serve also relies on his left hand. It’s used to toss the ball and is involved in the follow-through. If his left wrist is limited, it could affect the serve’s accuracy and power.

Managing the Injury

How much the FOOSH injury affects Sinner’s game depends on how stiff and painful his wrist is. To manage the injury, he will likely use RICE—rest, ice, compression, and elevation—to reduce swelling. He might also take anti-inflammatory medications to help with pain and swelling. Physical therapy could be used to keep his wrist flexible.

Without a detailed look at Sinner’s injury, it’s hard to say exactly how it will impact his performance in the U.S. Open final. For now, it’s still an open question.

Also Read: 5 Key Milestones Aryna Sabalenka Achieved by Reaching the US Open 2024 Final