Novak Djokovic has returned to the China Open in Beijing after an 11-year absence and started his campaign with a victory over Portugal’s Nuno Borges.
The Serbian star defeated Borges 6-3, 7-6(7-2) in the first round on Wednesday, September 30. The win extended Djokovic’s unbeaten record at the China Open to 30 victories without a defeat.
Djokovic had not played at the Beijing tournament since 2015. During his previous six appearances, he won the title every time, claiming championships in 2009, 2010 and from 2012 to 2015. His last Beijing final was against Rafael Nadal in 2015.
The 39-year-old entered the tournament after a disappointing first-round exit at the US Open. Before returning to Beijing, Djokovic said he was feeling good physically and was looking forward to competing again.
His US Open defeat had raised concerns because he experienced physical problems during the match against Argentina’s Mariano Navone. However, Djokovic said before the China Open that his body was responding well during training.
Against Borges, Djokovic showed his experience at important moments. He took the first set 6-3 before winning the second-set tiebreak 7-2.
The China Open is also important for Djokovic because he has become more selective about the tournaments he plays. He said the history he has in China, together with the support from Chinese fans, was one reason he wanted to return to Beijing.
The tournament has a different look this year because defending champion Jannik Sinner withdrew because of a right knee problem. Sinner had won the China Open in 2025 and was expected to defend his title.
Djokovic is now through to the round of 16, where he is scheduled to face China’s Bu Yunchaokete.
The Serbian has already made history at the tournament, but his return comes with another opportunity to compete for a seventh China Open title. His previous success in Beijing gives his 2026 campaign a strong historical background, although he still has to win several matches to claim another trophy.
The China Open runs from September 30 to October 6 and is an ATP 500 tournament played on hard courts.
