2026 China Open champion Novak Djokovic has backed world number one Jannik Sinner’s decision to shut down his season to focus on fully recovering from a knee injury.
He told reporters in Shanghai on Tuesday, October 6, after winning this year’s China Open after Alex de Minaur retired due to injury in the final game.
Sinner announced that he won’t compete in any tournament this year, with the move ruling him out of competing in the ATP Finals.
The Italian’s decision has opened the door for US Open champion Alexander Zverev to end the season as world number one, but Djokovic was supportive of Sinner’s decision to end his season.
“He has to think long-term. That’s smart because as someone that always tried to have the big picture in my mind, I really support that kind of thinking and mindset.”
“It’s important that you give yourself more years to your career, so you have more chances to accomplish all of your objectives” Djokovic said.
