Djokovic rallies past Zverev to reach China Open semi-finals

Novak Djokovic overcame a sluggish start to defeat top seed Alexander Zverev 4-6, 6-4, 6-4 and advance to the China Open semi-finals in Beijing. The six-time champion, making his return to the ATP 500 event after a 16-month absence, found Zverev's powerful game challenging in the early stages but gradually gained control. A brief controversy arose when Zverev requested a video review after losing a point due to a dark LED advertising sign, but replays confirmed the point should stand.

A crucial turning point occurred when Djokovic broke Zverev's serve in the second set, gaining momentum. In the deciding set, the Serbian secured two more breaks at 5-4 in both, ultimately winning the match in two hours and 35 minutes. Djokovic, who had not faced Zverev since winning the 2025 Roland Garros tournament, moved closer to his seventh China Open title and first of the year, denying Zverev another chance to bolster his world number one ranking.

Djokovic will next play Daniil Medvedev in the semi-finals after Medvedev defeated Francisco Cerundolo.