Jannik Sinner Set for ATP 500 Return in Beijing with Novak Djokovic Also Competing

Jannik Sinner is preparing to return to competitive tennis, aiming to play at the China Open starting September 30. The Italian star, ranked world No. 1, has not competed since winning Wimbledon in July due to a right knee injury that kept him out of the North American hard-court season, including the US Open, where he was the 2025 finalist.

After more than two months off, Sinner resumed training and will travel to Beijing later this week. The China Open holds special significance for him as he is the defending champion, having reached the final in each of his three appearances there and winning titles in 2023 and 2025.

Recovery and Preparation

Sinner’s absence had been uncertain for weeks following his withdrawal from the US Open because of incomplete knee recovery. His team chose a cautious rehab path instead of rushing his comeback. Earlier this month, he returned to practice courts in Monte Carlo and gradually increased his training load. Positive progress led to targeting the China Open for his return.

The 25-year-old’s comeback is crucial with the Shanghai Masters following shortly after on October 7. Meanwhile, his time away allowed Alexander Zverev to challenge his top ranking.

Novak Djokovic Joins the Field in Beijing

Adding to the tournament’s appeal, Novak Djokovic is also set to compete at the China Open for the first time since 2015. The 24-time Grand Slam winner boasts a flawless 29-0 match record at this event and has secured six titles there.

Djokovic arrives in Beijing after a surprising early exit at the US Open, losing in the first round to Mariano Navone. He aims to regain momentum during the Asian swing, making the field notably strong.

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