Djokovic withdraws from China Open

Next week's China Open tournament in Beijing comes too soon for world number one Novak Djokovic, who hopes to return to the ATP Tour in the near future.

World number one Novak Djokovic in action.

Novak Djokovic will not be able to defend his China Open title after being forced to withdraw from the event due to an elbow injury. Next week's tournament in Beijing comes too soon for the world number one, who hopes to return to the ATP Tour in the near future.

"I am very sad not to be able to compete at the China Open this year," said the 12-time grand slam champion. "I am still recovering from my elbow injury and have been advised not to play tournaments until my condition improves and allows me to compete. I will continue with my rehabilitation and hope to be able to return to the ATP World Tour as soon as possible."

"The China Open is one of my favourite tournaments. I have had a lot of success there, winning the title six times. I love competing in front of the passionate Chinese fans and I look forward to coming back to Beijing in the future."

Last year's runner-up Rafael Nadal will return to the event, as will world number two Andy Murray.