Djokovic Claims 102nd Title in Beijing as De Minaur Retires Injured

Key points

• Djokovic won the China Open final 7-6 (7-3) before de Minaur retired with a left thigh injury in the second set.
• This is Djokovic's 102nd career title, placing him behind only Jimmy Connors and Roger Federer in the Open Era.
• Djokovic has a perfect 34-0 record at the China Open, having won the event seven times.
• Carlos Alcaraz won the Japan Open, his third title of the season and first since returning from a wrist injury.
• Djokovic's victory moves him to ninth in the race for the ATP Finals, strengthening his qualification hopes.

Background

Djokovic had struggled with health issues earlier in 2026, including a first-round loss at the US Open and a third-round exit at the French Open. He had not won a title in over a year before Beijing. In the semi-finals, Djokovic advanced after Daniil Medvedev was disqualified for hitting a spectator with a ball, an incident that occurred while Djokovic was leading 7-5, 5-3.

How outlets are covering it

BBC Sport and ATP Tour emphasize Djokovic's historic achievement, noting he is the first player to win a tour-level title in 21 consecutive seasons. Sky Sports highlights the anticlimactic nature of the final, with former British No. 1 Johanna Konta noting that matches ending in retirement lack emotional release. ATP Tour details Djokovic's remarkable backhand passing winner in the first set, while BBC Sport notes Djokovic's comments about his physical struggles earlier in the year. All sources agree on the final score and the retirement, but differ in emphasis: BBC and Sky focus on the human element and injury, while ATP Tour focuses on the statistical milestones and match dynamics.

Why it matters

Djokovic's victory cements his status as one of the most successful players in tennis history, with 102 titles. It also strengthens his bid for the ATP Finals, where he now leads de Minaur by 140 points. Alcaraz's Japan Open win demonstrates his resilience after a wrist injury, marking his return to form after a challenging first half of the year.

What to watch

Djokovic will likely continue his campaign at the ATP 1000 Shanghai Masters, where he is expected to compete. Alcaraz will also participate in Shanghai, aiming to maintain his momentum. The ATP Finals in Turin will be the next major event, with Djokovic and de Minaur both vying for qualification.