Overview
- Sinner announced on Friday that he will not play the China Open because his right knee is “not where I would like it to be,” extending a layoff that began after his Wimbledon win in July.
- He has missed the Canadian Open, Cincinnati and the US Open and will now forfeit the 500 points he defended in Beijing.
- The points loss reduces Sinner’s cushion at the top of the rankings and gives Alexander Zverev a clearer opportunity to close the gap for the year‑end No.1 spot.
- Reports say Sinner is pursuing conservative treatment and targeting the Shanghai Masters as a possible return, though that timetable is unconfirmed and medical details remain limited.
- Tournament organizers have named a replacement in the Beijing draw and the longer outcome for Sinner now hinges on his recovery for upcoming indoor events such as Vienna, the Paris Masters and the ATP Finals.