Novak Djokovic is set to make his long-awaited return to the China Open after an 11-year absence, adding further star power to a tournament that will feature world No. 1 Jannik Sinner and newly crowned US Open champion Alexander Zverev.

The 24-time Grand Slam champion last competed in Beijing in 2015 and has confirmed that the China Open will be his next tournament following his shock first-round exit at the US Open. The ATP 500 event is scheduled to take place from September 30 to October 6.

Djokovic, now ranked 12th in the world, endured a difficult US Open campaign and slipped out of the ATP top 10 following his defeat by Argentina's Mariano Navone. It was his first opening-round loss at a Grand Slam since the 2006 Australian Open.

Six-time champion returns to a happy hunting ground

Beijing holds a special place in Djokovic's career. He has played the China Open six times and won the title on every occasion, compiling a remarkable 29-0 record at the tournament. His last appearance came in 2015, when he defeated Rafael Nadal in the final.

Announcing his return, Djokovic expressed his excitement about playing in front of Chinese fans again.

“I am very happy to announce that I’m coming back to Beijing after many years to play at the China Open,” the Serbian said. He also thanked Chinese fans for their “years-long love and support” and said he could not wait to return to the National Tennis Centre.

Djokovic's mixed 2026 season

The Serbian has endured an inconsistent year, although he produced strong runs at two Grand Slam tournaments. He reached the Australian Open final before losing to Carlos Alcaraz and later advanced to the Wimbledon semi-finals.

Fitness, however, has remained a significant concern. Djokovic's US Open campaign ended at the first hurdle after a physically demanding five-set battle against Navone. His subsequent fall to No. 12 marks the end of an eight-year spell inside the world's top 10.

Sinner, Zverev add to star-studded field

Djokovic will be joined in Beijing by defending champion Jannik Sinner, who is set to return to competition after dealing with a knee problem. The world No. 1 has reached the China Open final in each of his three appearances and won the title in 2023 and 2025.

US Open champion Alexander Zverev is also among the leading names confirmed for the tournament after securing his second Grand Slam title in New York. Carlos Alcaraz, meanwhile, is set to compete at the Japan Open during the same period rather than defend his China Open title.

With Djokovic returning to a tournament where he has never lost, and Sinner and Zverev also in the field, Beijing is set for a high-profile week of men's tennis.