World number three Andy Murray has withdrawn from next week's inaugural $5.25mn Shanghai Masters because of a wrist injury, organisers said on Thursday.

The Briton, who also missed this week's Japan Open for the same reason, joined world number one Roger Federer in pulling out of the penultimate Masters series event of the season.

Murray sustained the injury in Cincinnati in August and, after a medical examination on Wednesday, was advised to rest his wrist for two to three weeks, according to a statement.

"I apologise for the inconvenience that my withdrawal may cause but I trust you understand, the situation is beyond my control and I would much rather participate in the tournament than be in the current position regarding my health," Murray said in a letter to organisers.

Murray and Federer, who cited fatigue when he pulled out of the event, are among five players who have already secured their places at November's season-ending World Tour Finals in London.

World number two Rafa Nadal, also competing at the China Open in Beijing this week, heads the field at the Shanghai Masters at the Qizhong arena from October 11-18.