Jannik Sinner is targeting a return to action before the Australian Open, with the Six Kings Slam in Saudi Arabia a possible first stop. The Italian is recovering from a knee injury and says he must follow medical protocols before returning.Sinner is targeting a return during the SiX Kings Slam in Saudi (Courtesy: Reuters)Jannik Sinner is looking to get back on court before the end of December, with the Six Kings Slam in Saudi Arabia potentially marking his return as he builds towards the Australian Open.

The Italian has been out of action since lifting the Wimbledon title in July after defeating Alexander Zverev in the final. A right knee problem subsequently forced him to withdraw from the US Open, with persistent fitness concerns preventing him from making a comeback.The extended layoff eventually brought Sinner's season to an early close, with the 25-year-old confirming last month that he would not compete again in 2026.His absence has also cost him the top spot in the ATP rankings.

Zverev moved back to No. 1 last week, ending Sinner's 95-week reign as the world's highest-ranked player."The aim is to go to Australia, the aim is also maybe to do a couple of tournaments first," Sinner said at a sponsor event in Milan on Tuesday. "But I have to respect the protocols at the moment because if we rush things we could have more serious problems. "I also only have that information, that I have to work hard every day for that objective and then we'll see."The Six Kings Slam, an exhibition tournament held in Saudi Arabia, has been rescheduled for the final week of December after being postponed amid the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. "That (is the target) but we all know the situation what's there at the moment, which is not the best, so this is not our decision as players, this is a more general decision," Sinner told The Associated Press."But I think if we want to prepare for Australia (and) I'm not playing since Wimbledon, some matches before might be very helpful."Although the event does not offer ATP ranking points, it features substantial prize money.

Sinner emerged victorious in the tournament's second edition last year and could use this year's event to regain match sharpness ahead of the new season.- Ends