Image Source: BBC
Novak Djokovic produced a stirring comeback against Alexander Zverev to reach the China Open semifinals in Beijing. The 39-year-old Serbian recovered from losing the opening set to defeat the top seed 4-6, 6-4, 6-4 on 4 October 2026.
The victory extended Djokovic’s unbeaten record in Beijing to 32 matches and moved him closer to a potential seventh China Open title. He will face third seed Daniil Medvedev in the last four on Monday.
Novak Djokovic Delivers a Powerful China Open Comeback
Zverev made the stronger start in the quarter-final, using his powerful groundstrokes to unsettle Djokovic. The German capitalised on an early break in the first game and held his advantage to take the opening set 6-4.
Djokovic, however, gradually found greater control from the baseline. The former world number one absorbed Zverev’s pace, extended rallies and began forcing his opponent into more difficult positions.
The turning point arrived at 5-4 in the second set. Djokovic created pressure on Zverev’s serve and converted the opportunity to level the match at one set apiece.
Neither player was able to establish a clear advantage in the deciding set. The contest remained finely balanced until Djokovic again raised his level at 5-4. He earned a decisive break and closed out the match with the clinical composure that has defined his career.
Djokovic Embraces Another Defining Moment
After the match, Djokovic said the atmosphere and quality of the contest were exactly the reasons he continues to compete at the highest level.
“These are the kind of moments that I still play for, compete for,” Djokovic said. “The motivation is big when you are feeling good and competing at par with the best players in the world in front of 15,000 people.”
He added that such matches can define the dreams of tennis players, particularly when they come against one of the leading competitors on the ATP Tour.
The result was especially significant because Djokovic has endured a difficult 2026 season. Form and fitness have proved challenging, and he is still searching for his first trophy of the year. Even so, his run in Beijing has offered renewed evidence that he remains capable of defeating the sport’s best players.
“It’s been a struggle this year for different reasons,” Djokovic said. “But I’m still there, still grinding, still making the youngsters work for their money. I’m just glad to push it through.”
What Comes Next for Novak Djokovic?
Djokovic’s next opponent will be Daniil Medvedev, who reached the semifinals earlier with a 7-6 (7-4), 6-3 victory over Francisco Cerundolo. The meeting will test Djokovic’s movement, endurance and ability to maintain his aggressive level against another accomplished hard-court player.
Medvedev’s consistency and deep court positioning can create long, physically demanding rallies. Djokovic’s return game and experience in high-pressure moments could prove decisive, particularly if the semifinal becomes another closely fought contest.
The other semifinal will feature Hubert Hurkacz against Alex de Minaur. Hurkacz defeated Karen Khachanov 7-6 (7-2), 6-2, while de Minaur recovered from a slow start to overcome Andrey Rublev 1-6, 6-2, 6-3.
Why the Victory Matters
- Unbeaten in Beijing: Djokovic’s winning streak at the China Open has now reached 32 matches.
- Major ranking impact: Zverev’s defeat damages his hopes of finishing the year as the world’s number one player.
- Season revival: The result gives Djokovic valuable momentum during a difficult 2026 campaign.
- Title opportunity: Djokovic is now two wins away from another China Open championship.
The win also underlined Djokovic’s remarkable ability to remain competitive across generations. At 39, he continues to challenge younger opponents such as Zverev and Medvedev, relying on his anticipation, flexibility and unmatched big-match experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the score between Novak Djokovic and Alexander Zverev?
Novak Djokovic defeated Alexander Zverev 4-6, 6-4, 6-4 in the China Open quarter-final.
Who will Novak Djokovic play next?
Djokovic will play Daniil Medvedev in the China Open semifinals on Monday.
How many matches has Djokovic won consecutively in Beijing?
The victory extended Djokovic’s unbeaten run in Beijing to 32 matches.
Why was the result important for Alexander Zverev?
Zverev’s defeat damaged his hopes of finishing 2026 as the world’s number one-ranked player.
