Djokovic beats Zverev in China Open quarter-finals to extend Beijing record to 32-0

Novak Djokovic defeated Alexander Zverev 4-6, 6-4, 6-4 in the China Open quarter-finals after a slow start, turning the match around with strong serving and clutch breaks at 5-4 in the second and third sets. The Serbian world No. 11 overcame an early break caused by two double faults in the opening game to secure the two-hour, 34-minute victory in Beijing. Djokovic did not lose serve again after the opening game, breaking the German world No. 2 when leading 5-4 in both the second and third sets to seal the win.

Djokovic’s mindset and reflections

Djokovic said he still plays for moments like these, motivated by competing at the highest level in front of a large crowd. He acknowledged it has been a struggle this year for different reasons but said he is still grinding and making younger players work for their money. The 24-time Grand Slam champion praised the Beijing crowd for being phenomenal, engaged, loud, and supportive, calling them a deciding factor in turning the match around.

He reflected on the quick turnaround required after such a demanding contest. "I wish I had an extra day off to really enjoy the time, enjoy the win, but no time," Djokovic said. "I'm already thinking what I need to do to recover, get a good night's sleep." He described Zverev’s serving as a nightmare for opponents due to the few opportunities it presented, noting Zverev missed just one of his 24 first serves in the second set.

Records and historical context

The win extended Djokovic’s flawless record at the ATP 500 event to 32-0, surpassing Rafael Nadal's 31-0 start at Roland Garros for the most consecutive wins at a single tournament before a loss. Djokovic, a six-time China Open champion, has never lost a singles match at the tournament. The victory also keeps him in pursuit of his 102nd career ATP title.

Djokovic called the win one of his best performances of the season. Yeah, this is probably one of the two best matches that I played this year, next to the one against Sinner in the semis of Australian Open, he stated. Just obviously very thrilled to win against probably the best player in the world at the moment.

What’s next for Djokovic

Djokovic will face Russian Daniil Medvedev in the semi-finals next week. A win would send him to the final, where he could meet either Alex de Minaur or Hubert Hurkacz. The 39-year-old highlighted his resilience and ongoing motivation as he continues to chase historic milestones late in his career.

Djokovic will face Daniil Medvedev in the semi-finals next week.