Defending champion Sinner withdraws from China Open as knee injury recovery continues

Jannik Sinner, the world's top-ranked tennis player, has decided to withdraw from the China Open due to his ongoing recovery from a knee injury. The 25-year-old Italian tennis star, who recently won the Wimbledon title in July, has not participated in any tournaments since then. Sinner had previously skipped the Canadian Open and the Cincinnati Open, both crucial hard-court warm-up events, before announcing his withdrawal from the China Open.

In a statement shared on social media, Sinner expressed his regret about not being able to play in Beijing this year. He clarified that his knee is not yet at the level he desires and that he is not yet ready to compete. However, he assured fans that he is doing everything possible to return to the court as soon as possible. Sinner expressed his disappointment at not being able to defend his China Open title for the second time, but he remained optimistic about his return next year.

Sinner recently defeated American Learner Tien in straight sets at the Beijing final last year, securing his second China Open title. His absence from the China Open leaves world-renowned tennis player Novak Djokovic as one of the key attractions at the ATP 500 event. The Serbian star, who has won 24 Grand Slam titles, plans to return to the China Open after an 11-year absence.

Djokovic is returning to the tournament with a perfect record and six titles at the Beijing event. The men's draw for the China Open will take place from September 30 to October 6.