Sinner's return to action will have to wait a little longer. The world number one has announced his withdrawal from the China Open in Beijing, which is scheduled to start next week and where he was due to defend the title he won a year ago. His absence extends a layoff that began after July’s Wimbledon final.

Sinner himself explained the decision in a video posted on social media, providing an update on his physical condition:

"I'm very sorry to announce that I won't be able to ‌play in Beijing this year," Sinner announced.

"My ‌knee is not where I would like it to be, and ​I'm not ready to compete yet, but I will do everything possible to be back on ​court as soon as I can.

"What I miss the most is, of course, the tournament, the fans and ⁠the atmosphere. I've ​had a great time in the past, including winning the title last year, and I'm very disappointed that I cannot defend it this year, but I'm very happy to ‌come back next year.

"So I wish everyone a very good tournament, and I'll see you all very soon on court again."

The Italian has been sidelined for more than two months because of inflammation in the tendons of his right knee, forcing him to miss the entire American swing, including the US Open.

In recent weeks, however, he had stepped up his on-court work, returning to training in Monte Carlo and also completing a session with Flavio Cobolli. The signs pointed to a possible return during the Asian swing, but Sinner has chosen not to rush his recovery.

The decision therefore represents a further delay from what had been expected and raises fresh questions about his next tournament.

Shanghai remains one of the targets, but there is currently no certainty that the South Tyrolean will take part in the Masters 1000 event. There is also a possibility that he could return later, with Vienna among the options.