Djokovic withdraws from China Open due to elbow injury

World No.1 tennis player Novak Djokovic of Serbia on Wednesday pulled out of next week's China Open due to elbow injury, which means that he will have to wait another year before attempting to win his seventh China Open title.

Djokovic has won six times at the China Open over the past seven years and holds a 29 winning streak in the tournament, reports Xinhua.

"I am very sad not to be able to compete at the China Open this year. 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," Djokovic said in a statement.

"The China Open is one of my favorite 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 future," he added.

The tournament organisers lamented the Serbian star's absence.

"Djokovic is a fan favourite in Beijing and a tremendous champion at the China Open. It is unfortunate that he will not be able to defend his title this year due to injury. We wish him a successful recovery and look forward to seeing him on tour again soon, maintaining his position as world No. 1," said Zhang Junhui, the Chine Open tournament director.

The China Open will take place from October 3 to 9.

--IANS

pur/dg