BEIJING — Novak Djokovic made a winning return to the China Open on September 30, defeating Portugal’s Nuno Borges 6-3, 7-6(2) in Beijing and extending his perfect tournament record to 30 wins without a loss.
The Serbian star had not played at the China Open for 11 years. His return has added major international attention to an event that has become an important stop on the Asian tennis calendar.
Djokovic controls the opening match
Djokovic produced a strong performance against Borges, taking the first set 6-3 before winning the second-set tiebreak 7-2. The result moved him into the next round of the tournament.
The victory also continued a remarkable record in Beijing. Djokovic has won every China Open match he has played, making the tournament one of the most successful events of his career.
A long-awaited return to Beijing
Djokovic last played at the China Open in 2014. His return in 2026 has attracted attention because of his long history at the tournament and his continuing role as one of the most recognized names in men’s tennis.
China’s tennis audience has grown significantly over the past decade, while the country has also produced internationally successful players. The return of a global star such as Djokovic adds to the tournament’s profile.
Why the China Open matters
The China Open is part of the late-season Asian swing on the professional tennis calendar. Events in Asia give players an opportunity to compete in major international tournaments while bringing top-level tennis to audiences across the region.
For Beijing, hosting leading players is also part of the city’s wider sports and cultural calendar. International sporting events can attract visitors, media coverage and commercial activity.
Djokovic’s experience remains a major factor
Djokovic has built a career around consistency at the highest level of men’s tennis. His ability to manage long matches, pressure points and tiebreaks remains central to his game.
Against Borges, the second-set tiebreak provided a decisive moment. Djokovic took control early in the tiebreak and did not allow his opponent to force a third set.
What comes next
Djokovic will now prepare for the next round in Beijing. The tournament provides another opportunity for him to compete against leading players as the season moves toward its final stages.
His return also gives the China Open an additional storyline for international tennis fans. Whether he can continue his unbeaten tournament record will be one of the main questions surrounding his campaign.
China’s growing tennis audience
Tennis has expanded its reach in China over the past several years, supported by domestic stars, international tournaments and growing participation among younger players.
Major events in Beijing and Shanghai provide Chinese fans with opportunities to watch leading international athletes in person. The presence of established champions can also encourage interest in the sport among younger audiences.
Sport and China’s international profile
International sporting events are an important part of China’s global cultural presence. Hosting major tournaments allows cities to showcase stadiums, tourism infrastructure and hospitality services while connecting domestic audiences with international athletes.
The China Open is therefore more than a tennis tournament for Beijing. It is also part of the city’s international sporting calendar.
Why Djokovic’s return is significant
Djokovic’s 30-0 China Open record is an unusual statistic in modern elite tennis. Maintaining a perfect record across multiple editions of a tournament requires consistency over many years, opponents and playing conditions.
His first-round victory in 2026 ensures that the record remains intact and gives fans another opportunity to see one of the sport’s most accomplished players compete in Beijing.
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Source: Reuters reporting from the China Open in Beijing.
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