Novak Djokovic ended a challenging season by claiming his 102nd ATP Tour-level title at the China Open on Tuesday, securing his first trophy since November 2025. The 39-year-old Serbian extended his unbeaten record at the Beijing tournament to 34-0 after his final opponent, Alex de Minaur, retired due to injury early in the second set.
Djokovic’s path to the title was marked by unusual circumstances. In the semifinals, Daniil Medvedev was disqualified after hitting a ball that struck a spectator, ending that match prematurely. Djokovic, who has been limited to eight tournaments this year due to an undisclosed health condition, took a medical timeout during the final but managed to hold on amid persistent physical challenges.
“It’s been a challenging year,” Djokovic said following his victory. “Many times I’ve questioned whether I want to keep playing this way, feeling this way on the court, but this week has proved me wrong once again and given me a great confidence boost for the rest of the year.” He also reaffirmed his intention to continue competing at a high level through at least the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles.
Earlier in the tournament, Djokovic recorded a win against Alexander Zverev, a result that stands out amid a season that saw fellow top players Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner sidelined by injuries. Both Alcaraz and Sinner were considered among his main rivals for an elusive 25th Grand Slam title this year. However, it was Zverev who capitalized most decisively in 2026, capturing both the French Open and the US Open crowns and positioning himself to finish the year as world No. 1.
Sinner will not compete again this season after announcing on Tuesday that a knee injury has forced him to end his 2026 campaign. His team described the injury as “inflammation,” while reports from Italy suggest it may be iliotibial band syndrome, a condition caused by overuse that leads to pain on the outside of the knee. Sinner consulted with renowned surgeon Dr. Bertrand Sonnery-Cottet, who recommended conservative treatment and rest over surgery. “The 2026 season is officially over,” Sinner said in a social media statement, emphasizing his focus on long-term recovery.
Zverev’s rise to the top of the rankings reflects ongoing volatility in men’s tennis, disrupted by injuries to many leading contenders. Despite his achievements, Zverev has struggled this year against other top players including Alcaraz, Sinner, and Djokovic, and younger talents such as Jack Draper, Arthur Fils, Holger Rune, Lorenzo Musetti, and João Fonseca have experienced their own health setbacks.
Meanwhile, Alcaraz took a positive step on his return from a four-month wrist injury absence by winning the Japan Open title on Monday. The Spaniard defeated Jiri Lehecka in straight sets, marking his first trophy since February. “It’s extra special after my injury,” Alcaraz said. “My comeback, in the second tournament that I’ve played, lifting a trophy means a lot.” He acknowledged that his level was not yet at its peak but expressed satisfaction with his ability to perform well in critical moments.