Jannik Sinner has withdrawn from the China Open while defending champion Amanda Anisimova also won’t play the event.
The Italian hasn’t played since successfully defending his Wimbledon title where he defeated Alexander Zverev in four sets.
That run is set to continue as Sinner announced on social media that he is withdrawing from the event due to a knee injury, “I’m very sorry to announce that I won’t be able to play in Beijing this year,” the Italian stated.
“My knee is not where I would like it to be, and I’m not ready to compete, but I will do everything possible to be there on court as soon as I can. What I’ll miss the most is, of course, the tournament, the fans, and the atmosphere.
“I’ve had a great time in the past, winning the title last year. I’m very disappointed that I cannot defend it this year, but I’m very happy to come back next year. I wish everyone a very good tournament, and I’ll see you all very soon.”
It means Sinner faces a race against time to be fit for the Masters 1000 event in Shanghai because if the world number one isn’t fit then Alexander Zverev could be the new world number one if he wins the title in Shanghai.
Meanwhile, there are a catalogue of withdrawals from the women’s event which starts on Wednesday.
The highest ranked withdrawal is Jessica Pegula with a back injury while the in-form Marta Kostyuk has withdrawn due to a wrist injury.
That is a huge blow for Kostyuk’s chances of qualifying for the WTA Finals and will need something special in the final few months to qualify for the end of season finale.
Defending champion Amanda Anisimova has also withdrawn from the event in Beijing which means the American will leave the world’s top 15.
The likes of Elena Rybakina, Coco Gauff, Mirra Andreeva and Iga Swiatek are set to play in Beijing as there is lots to play for in the penultimate Masters event of the season.
