Djokovic Reached China Open Final After Default
Novak Djokovic secured a spot in the final after Daniil Medvedev was disqualified during their semi-final match.
Updated on Oct. 5, 2026 in Tennis
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At 39 years old, Novak Djokovic has become the oldest man to reach an ATP 500 final after Daniil Medvedev was defaulted from their semi-final match in Beijing. The victory extends Djokovic's winning streak at the tournament to 33 consecutive matches.
Why it matters
The achievement marks a significant rebound for the 24-time major champion following his early exit from the 2026 US Open. It underscores his continued competitiveness as he looks toward future appearances, including the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
Djokovic is now the oldest man to reach an ATP 500 final, moving to the championship round after Medvedev was defaulted while trailing 7-5, 5-3. The win represents his 33rd consecutive victory at the Beijing tournament.
The players
Novak Djokovic
He is a 39-year-old tennis professional who has won 24 major titles throughout his career.
Daniil Medvedev
He is a professional tennis player who was defaulted during the China Open semi-final match against Djokovic.
Alexander Zverev
He is a professional tennis player who was defeated by Djokovic in a three-set semi-final match.
Alex De Minaur
He is a professional tennis player scheduled to face Djokovic in the China Open final.
The details
Djokovic advanced to the final after his opponent was disqualified during the high-stakes semi-final contest. The tennis star previously defeated Alexander Zverev in a three-set semi-final match to position himself for the upcoming title match.
Timeline
2024: Djokovic won the gold medal at the Paris Olympics.
2026: Djokovic competed in the US Open.
October 5, 2026: Article publication.
October 6, 2026: Djokovic plays China Open final against De Minaur.
2028: Los Angeles Olympics scheduled.
Season Trajectory
This final appearance revitalizes Djokovic's season following his early exit from the 2026 US Open. It re-establishes his presence as a top-tier contender in ATP 500 events leading into the latter stages of the calendar.
The default of Medvedev leaves Djokovic with a rest advantage heading into the final match against Alex De Minaur. This victory helps Djokovic correct a recent 0-3 win-loss record he has faced since the Wimbledon semi-final.
The takeaway
Djokovic demonstrates that age-defying performance is possible through consistent tournament participation and strategic scheduling. Readers can observe how his ability to maintain momentum at age 39 provides a roadmap for long-term athletic endurance.
What happens next
Novak Djokovic is scheduled to compete against Alex De Minaur in the China Open final on Tuesday, October 6, 2026.
Further reading
For more on the current circuit, check out our Tennis coverage.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Tennis365.
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