Image Source: ATP Tour
Beijing Open drama delivered another landmark moment for Novak Djokovic, who fought back from a set down to defeat home favorite Yunchaokete Bu and reach the quarterfinals in Beijing. The 39-year-old Serbian prevailed 4-6, 7-6, 6-2, extending his unbeaten China Open record to 31 matches.
The victory was significant for more than just Djokovic’s progress in the draw. It also helped him match an extraordinary record shared by Roger Federer and Jimmy Connors, while keeping his hopes of qualifying for the ATP Finals alive.
Beijing Open comeback extends Djokovic’s historic streak
Djokovic faced a difficult challenge against Bu, who used the energy of the home crowd to take the opening set. The Chinese player’s aggressive approach unsettled the 24-time Grand Slam champion, who was forced to work hard for every opening.
However, Djokovic regained control during a tense second-set tiebreak. After leveling the match, he appeared increasingly comfortable in the decider and pulled away to complete the comeback. The result maintained his remarkable 31-0 record at the Beijing Open, a streak that has now lasted 11 years.
According to The Tennis Gazette, Djokovic’s run in Beijing has reached the same number of consecutive victories Rafael Nadal recorded at Roland Garros at the beginning of his career. That comparison places Djokovic’s tournament dominance among the most impressive sustained performances in modern tennis.
A powerful milestone alongside Federer and Connors
Djokovic’s latest win also produced a remarkable statistical achievement. He has now reached at least three quarterfinals in a single season 21 times, matching Federer and Connors for the highest total on record.
- Novak Djokovic: 21 seasons
- Roger Federer: 21 seasons
- Jimmy Connors: 21 seasons
- Rafael Nadal: 19 seasons
- Richard Gasquet: 19 seasons
- Andre Agassi: 18 seasons
Djokovic first achieved the feat in 2006. His 2026 campaign began with a quarterfinal appearance at the Australian Open, where he eventually reached the final before losing to Carlos Alcaraz. The Spaniard’s victory secured a historic Career Grand Slam at a remarkably young age.
Djokovic later struggled to reach the latter stages at Indian Wells, the Italian Open and Roland Garros. He returned to the last eight at Wimbledon, defeating Felix Auger-Aliassime in a grueling five-set contest before falling to Jannik Sinner in the semifinals.
Djokovic revives ATP Finals hopes in China
The Beijing Open has arrived at an important point in Djokovic’s season. Early exits at the Cincinnati Open and the US Open, combined with a three-match losing streak, had placed his qualification hopes for the ATP Finals under serious pressure.
His wins over Nuno Borges and Yunchaokete Bu have now moved him three places higher in the live race. Djokovic currently sits 12th with 2,430 points, while Daniil Medvedev occupies the eighth and final qualification position with 3,070 points.
The gap remains challenging, but the progress gives Djokovic a clearer route back into contention. He is competing with players including Rafael Jodar, Taylor Fritz and Alex de Minaur for a place at the season-ending event.
Djokovic is a record seven-time ATP Finals champion, making the qualification battle particularly significant. The tournament has long been one of his strongest stages, and missing it would represent a rare ending to an otherwise decorated career.
What comes next for the Serbian star?
Djokovic’s quarterfinal appearance offers fresh momentum after a difficult stretch. His performance against Bu was not completely straightforward, but his ability to absorb pressure, recover from a slow start and dominate the final set showed why he remains a dangerous opponent on the biggest stages.
The remaining Beijing draw will test his fitness and consistency. At 39, every match carries additional attention, particularly after recent physical concerns and early tournament exits. Still, his unbeaten record in China and his latest comeback suggest that Djokovic is not ready to surrender his place among the elite.
For now, the Serbian can celebrate another historic achievement. He has equaled Nadal’s 31-match tournament streak, joined Federer and Connors at the top of a major longevity statistic, and moved closer to the ATP Finals qualification places—all in one crucial week.
FAQs about the Beijing Open
What was Novak Djokovic’s result in Beijing?
Djokovic defeated Yunchaokete Bu 4-6, 7-6, 6-2 to advance to the quarterfinals of the China Open in Beijing.
What is Djokovic’s record at the Beijing Open?
Following his latest victory, Djokovic’s record at the Beijing tournament stands at 31 wins and no losses.
Which record did Djokovic match with Federer and Connors?
Djokovic matched Roger Federer and Jimmy Connors by reaching at least three quarterfinals in a season for the 21st time.
Is Djokovic guaranteed a place at the ATP Finals?
No. Djokovic currently sits 12th in the live ATP Finals race, while only the top eight players qualify. His Beijing results have improved his position, but he still needs more points.
