Djokovic Defeats Zverev to Reach China Open Semifinals

Novak Djokovic advanced to the China Open semifinals by defeating Alexander Zverev 4-6 6-4 6-4 in the quarterfinals on October 4, 2026. The 39-year-old Serbian, ranked 11th in the ATP, recovered from dropping the opening set to secure victory in straight sets thereafter. Zverev, world number two and the top seed at the tournament, had broken Djokovic's serve early but could not maintain the advantage as Djokovic found his rhythm in the second and third sets, seizing breaks at 5-4 in both to clinch the match.

Djokovic's win extended his unbeaten record in Beijing to 32 consecutive matches and brought him closer to a seventh China Open title. The victory also marked his first trophy of 2026, a year the 24-time Grand Slam champion described as difficult due to form and fitness challenges. Djokovic will face third-seeded Daniil Medvedev in the semifinals on Monday; Medvedev advanced by defeating Francisco Cerundolo 7-6 (7-4) 6-3. The other semifinal will pit Poland's Hubert Hurkacz against Australia's Alex de Minaur.

Djokovic's victory also complicated Zverev's pursuit of finishing 2026 as the world's number one. Zverev had entered the tournament as the year's top-performing player, having won his first two Grand Slam titles at Roland Garros and the US Open. The two players had last met at Roland Garros in 2025, where Djokovic prevailed in four sets after three hours and 17 minutes. Since that match, Zverev had risen to become the favoured player heading into their Beijing quarterfinal.