Image Source: ATP Tour
Novak Djokovic is returning to competitive action at the China Open with a familiar ambition: winning. The 39-year-old Serbian is preparing for his first match since his shocking first-round defeat to Mariano Navone at the US Open, where physical struggles played a major role in an exhausting five-set contest.
Djokovic appeared to be in discomfort throughout the match in New York. He vomited several times and struggled to move around the court before Navone, then ranked No. 49 in the world, completed a four-hour, 36-minute victory. The unexpected loss added to a difficult 2026 campaign for the 24-time Grand Slam champion.
Novak Djokovic Makes a Powerful China Open Return
Despite the setback, Djokovic has quickly turned his attention to Beijing and the next opportunity on the ATP Tour. His record at the China Open gives him plenty of reason for confidence: he has won all 29 of his matches at the tournament and lifted the trophy six times.
His last appearance in Beijing came in 2015, when he defeated Rafael Nadal in the final. That victory completed a remarkable run of four consecutive China Open titles, making the tournament one of the most successful stops of his career.
However, Djokovic insisted before the event that he was not returning simply to enjoy the atmosphere or reconnect with fans. Speaking at his pre-tournament press conference, he made his competitive intentions clear.
“It’s never just to enjoy,” Djokovic said. “I could play exhibitions just to enjoy the crowd. I’m playing a professional tournament because I also want to win.”
The Primary Motivation Behind Djokovic’s Return
Djokovic explained that the desire to compete remains central to his decision to continue playing professional tennis. While Grand Slam tournaments are still his biggest priority, he said the same competitive standards apply whenever he enters an event.
“That’s actually the primary motivation, is always trying to compete and win against the guy across the net on a given day, try to get as far as you can in a tournament,” he said.
The Serbian added that strong crowd support, comfortable conditions and a positive atmosphere can improve a player’s performance, but those factors are secondary to the pursuit of victory. He also acknowledged that his expectations remain high after such a decorated career.
“I can’t satisfy myself with opening rounds of a tournament and be happy with that,” Djokovic said. “I’m always aiming for the last stages of a tournament, any tournament I play on.”
Can Djokovic End a Difficult 2026 Season?
Djokovic enters the China Open still searching for his first title of the season. As reported by The Tennis Gazette, he has reached only one final in 2026, finishing runner-up to Carlos Alcaraz at the Australian Open while attempting to secure a record 25th Grand Slam title.
He has also suffered seven defeats during the season, creating the possibility that he could finish the year without a championship for the first time since 2005. That would represent a striking change for one of tennis’s most consistent winners.
Still, Djokovic is not treating his recent losses as evidence that his career is fading. Instead, he views them as valuable lessons that can help him improve both as a player and as a person.
“They’re also opportunities to grow, to learn something new from that experience, and try to have takeaways that you can use for an improvement,” he said.
Nuno Borges Awaits in the First Round
Djokovic’s opening-round opponent in Beijing will be Portugal’s Nuno Borges. The match will provide an immediate test of the Serbian’s physical condition following his difficult US Open exit and his return to tournament tennis.
The China Open draw also includes several leading players during a busy Asian swing. For Djokovic, however, the focus is likely to remain on his own performance and whether he can rediscover the form that produced his extraordinary Beijing record.
- Djokovic has a 29-0 record at the China Open.
- He has won six titles at the Beijing event.
- His last appearance there was in 2015.
- He has not won a title during the 2026 season.
- His first-round opponent is Nuno Borges.
At this stage of his career, every tournament carries added significance. Djokovic understands that opportunities become more limited with time, but his words in Beijing showed that his competitive fire remains strong. His immediate target is simple: win matches, go deep into the draw and begin rebuilding momentum.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Novak Djokovic playing at the China Open?
Djokovic said he is playing because he wants to compete and win. He also has a strong history at the Beijing tournament, including a perfect 29-0 record.
Who will Novak Djokovic play in the first round?
Djokovic will face Portugal’s Nuno Borges in the opening round of the China Open.
When did Djokovic last play at the China Open?
His previous appearance came in 2015, when he defeated Rafael Nadal in the final.
Has Djokovic won a title in 2026?
No. Djokovic has reached one final this season, at the Australian Open, but he has not won a tournament title.
