Jannik Sinner Set for ATP Return in Beijing with Novak Djokovic Also Competing
Jannik Sinner is on the verge of returning to competitive tennis, aiming to compete at the China Open later this month. According to Italian media Sportmediaset, the world No. 1 plans to travel to Beijing ahead of the ATP 500 tournament starting September 30.
Sinner has been sidelined since his Wimbledon victory in July due to a right knee injury. This setback forced him to skip the entire North American hard-court season, including the US Open where he was runner-up in 2025. After more than two months away from competition, he has resumed training and set his sights on this upcoming event in China.
Defending Champion in Beijing
The China Open holds special significance for Sinner as he is the defending champion. He has reached the final in all three of his previous appearances at this event, securing titles in both 2023 and 2025.
Recovery and Preparation
Initially, Sinner had to withdraw from the US Open because his knee wasn’t fully healed. His team chose a cautious rehab approach rather than rushing his comeback. Earlier this month, he returned to practice courts in Monte Carlo, gradually increasing his training intensity. Recent reports indicate his knee is responding well, with the China Open confirmed as his target for a competitive return.
- Upcoming key events for Sinner:
- September 30: ATP 500 China Open (Beijing)
- October 7: Shanghai Masters
His absence from the North American tour gave Alexander Zverev a chance to challenge Sinner’s top ranking, adding pressure on the Italian as he resumes his campaign.
Novak Djokovic Joins the Field in Beijing
The tournament will feature not only Sinner but also Novak Djokovic, who is competing at the China Open for the first time since 2015. Djokovic holds a flawless 29-0 record at this event, winning six titles there. After an unexpected first-round exit at the US Open against Mariano Navone, Djokovic aims to regain form during the Asian swing.
