India, Sept. 17 -- World No. 2 Aryna Sabalenka has withdrawn from the upcoming China Open after sustaining an injury during her title-winning run at the US Open earlier this month, tournament organisers confirmed on Wednesday.

The Belarusian star, who clinched her second consecutive US Open crown and fourth Grand Slam title by defeating Amanda Anisimova, was expected to be one of the top contenders in Beijing. Last year, she advanced to the quarter-finals of the WTA 1000 event.

"I am sad to announce my withdrawal from the China Open this year after sustaining a small injury after the US Open," Sabalenka said in a statement shared by organisers. "I am going to focus on being 100% healthy for the rest of the year."

The China Open will be...