Jannik Sinner Set for ATP 500 Return in Beijing with Novak Djokovic Also Competing
Jannik Sinner is preparing to return to professional tennis at the ATP 500 event in Beijing, according to reports from Italian media outlet Sportmediaset. The world No. 1 has been sidelined since July after winning Wimbledon due to a right knee injury.
The injury forced him to miss the entire North American hard-court season, including the US Open where he was runner-up in 2025. After over two months off, Sinner has resumed training and aims to play again on September 30 at the China Open.
China Open Holds Special Significance for Sinner
This tournament holds added importance for Sinner, who is the defending champion in Beijing. He has reached the final in all three of his appearances there, securing titles in both 2023 and 2025.
Recovery and Training Progress
Earlier this month, Sinner returned to practice courts in Monte Carlo and has steadily increased his training workload. The cautious rehabilitation approach prioritized full recovery over rushing back into competition. Positive responses from his knee have encouraged his team to target the China Open for his comeback.
- Event: ATP 500 China Open
- Scheduled Return: September 30, 2026
- Previous Titles in Beijing: 2023, 2025
- Recent Injury: Right knee, sidelined since July
Ranking and Upcoming Challenges
The 25-year-old's return will be crucial as he looks to defend his Beijing crown and prepare for the Shanghai Masters starting October 7. His absence allowed Alexander Zverev to challenge his ranking position during the North American swing.
Novak Djokovic Joins China Open Lineup
Novak Djokovic will also compete at the China Open for the first time since 2015, boosting the tournament’s profile. The 24-time Grand Slam winner boasts a flawless 29-0 record at this event and has claimed six titles here.
Djokovic enters the Asian swing after an unexpected early exit at the US Open, losing in the first round to Mariano Navone. He hopes to regain form in Beijing alongside Sinner.
- Djokovic's China Open Record: 29-0
- China Open Titles: 6
- Last Appearance: 2015
- Recent Result: First-round loss at 2026 US Open
