Knee injury keeps Sinner out of China Open as Zverev eyes ranking gain
World No. 1 Jannik Sinner has withdrawn from next week’s China Open because his right knee is not ready for competition. The Italian has not played since winning Wimbledon in July, while his absence gives Alexander Zverev an opportunity to reduce the gap at the top.
Jannik Sinner has withdrawn from next week’s China Open in Beijing because of a continuing right knee injury, saying he was not ready to compete, Channels Television reported, citing AFP. The Italian, ranked world No. 1, has not played since winning Wimbledon on July 12.
He also withdrew from last month’s US Open. Sinner said he would do everything possible to return as soon as possible. Sinner has a 44-3 record and six titles in the 2026 season, including Wimbledon, according to the report.
His absence from Beijing could help Alexander Zverev challenge for the top ranking. The gap between the leading pair is 1,810 points, but it will fall by at least 440 points in the next rankings. Sinner has more points to defend later in the season after winning events in Beijing, Vienna, Paris and Turin in 2025.
Zverev is entered in Beijing, Shanghai and Vienna. He has won the French Open and US Open in 2026 and reached the Australian Open semi-finals and Wimbledon final, the report said.
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