Djokovic survives medical timeout and three-set battle to keep perfect Beijing record alive

BEIJING, Oct 3 — Novak Djokovic endured a challenging match against newcomer Bu Yunchaokete, emerging victorious in a three-set battle to maintain his perfect Beijing record. The 39-year-old Serbian, a favorite in China, had never lost in the city in 31 matches. Bu, 24, made a strong showing, keeping Djokovic on his toes throughout the grueling two-hour 52-minute contest.

The former world number one required a medical timeout for his torso after losing a break in the second set, but regained control in a tense tie-break to force a deciding third. Djokovic then won four games in a row, holding serve and sealing victory with a backhand winner. Speaking to an enthusiastic crowd, he praised the electric atmosphere and expressed his commitment to his game rather than his health concerns.

Djokovic will face either Alexander Zverev, the top seed, or Shang Juncheng in the quarter-finals. Meanwhile, Aryna Sabalenka advanced to the China Open title final after defeating Renata Zarazua 6-1, 6-3, setting her up for a match against Czech player Nikola Bartunkova. Earlier in the day, Naomi Osaka and Mirra Andreeva also progressed in their respective women's matches, setting up future encounters with Sara Bejlek and Linda Noskova.