Key Highlights:
- Novak Djokovic overcame a slow start to defeat Alexander Zverev in three sets at the China Open in Beijing.
- The victory extends Djokovic’s remarkable undefeated streak at the Beijing tournament to 32 consecutive matches.
- Djokovic advances to face Daniil Medvedev in the semi-finals, while Hubert Hurkacz and Alex de Minaur set up the other final-four clash.
Novak Djokovic Battles Past Alexander Zverev to Extend Historic Beijing Streak
In their first on-court clash in just under 16 months, Novak Djokovic displayed trademark resilience to defeat Alexander Zverev and continue his dominant legacy at the China Open. The 24-time Grand Slam champion initially found it difficult to counteract the heavy hitting and baseline power of the 29-year-old German. Zverev capitalized early, securing a service break in the opening game of the encounter and maintaining his advantage to claim the first set.
Unfazed by the deficit, Djokovic systematically worked his way back into contention during the second set. As the pressure mounted, the veteran seized a pivotal opening with a break of serve at 5-4, effectively leveling the contest. The deciding third set proved to be an evenly matched battle with little to separate the two competitors. However, Djokovic exhibited superior composure under pressure, striking once again at 5-4 on Zverev’s serve to clinically close out the match.
Chasing a Seventh China Open Title Amid a Challenging Campaign
The hard-fought triumph elevated Djokovic’s career unbeaten tally in Beijing to an astonishing 32 matches. The result brings him one step closer to securing a seventh China Open title and capturing his first trophy of what has been an arduous 2026 campaign marked by battles with form and physical fitness.
Following the grueling quarter-final, the Serbian reflected on the physical demands of navigating the season against younger competitors.
It’s been a struggle this year for different reasons,
Djokovic added. But I’m still there, still grinding, still making the youngsters work for their money. I’m just glad to push it through.
Semi-Final Lineup Confirmed in Beijing
With his quarter-final victory secured, Djokovic advances to play third seed Daniil Medvedev on Monday. Medvedev booked his place in the semi-finals earlier in the day by defeating Argentina’s Francisco Cerundolo in straight sets, 7-6 (7-4), 6-3.
On the opposite side of the draw, Poland’s Hubert Hurkacz also navigated his way into the final four after recording a decisive 7-6 (7-2), 6-2 victory over Karen Khachanov. Hurkacz will battle Australian contender Alex de Minaur for a spot in the final. De Minaur demonstrated strong resilience in his quarter-final against Andrey Rublev, overcoming a sluggish opening set to storm back for a 1-6, 6-2, 6-3 victory.
Why This Matters
Djokovic’s ongoing 32-match winning streak in Beijing underscores one of the most dominant individual tournament records in modern tennis history. After enduring an inconsistent 2026 season due to lingering fitness hurdles, reaching the latter stages of an elite ATP event serves as a major boost to his momentum. With high-caliber opponents like Medvedev, Hurkacz, and De Minaur still standing in the draw, the tournament serves as a critical proving ground for Djokovic as he continues to defend his standing against the sport’s established top-tier stars.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Novak Djokovic’s current win streak at the China Open?
Following his quarter-final win over Alexander Zverev, Novak Djokovic has won 32 consecutive matches at the China Open in Beijing without suffering a defeat.
Who will Novak Djokovic play next in the tournament?
Djokovic will face third seed Daniil Medvedev in the semi-finals on Monday.
Which players are competing in the other semi-final matchup?
The second semi-final match features Poland’s Hubert Hurkacz taking on Australia’s Alex de Minaur.
