Reigning world No.1 Novak Djokovic said Wednesday via Sina Weibo he will return to the China Open in September to defend his title.
Djokovic is the only four-time winner of the China Open. He will face challenges from Rafael Nadal - who he defeated in last year's final in Beijing - plus 2011 winner Tomas Berdych and Frenchman Richard Gasquet.
The top 50 female players will play as the women's tournament is a mandatory event.
Tickets went on sale on Tuesday.