Novak Djokovic recovered from a first‑set loss to overcome top seed Alexander Zverev 4-6 6-4 6-4 in the China Open round of 16, setting up a semi‑final clash with Daniil Medvedev.
The 39‑year‑old Serbian, who has won 24 Grand Slam titles, fell behind early but seized a break at 5-4 in the second set to level the match. He then broke Zverev at 5-4 in the third set to seal the win.
Djokovic said the victory was a “moment that defines dreams” for every tennis player, noting the motivation that comes from competing in front of 15,000 fans.
The win brings Djokovic’s unbeaten run in Beijing to 32 matches, bringing him closer to a seventh China Open title and a first trophy of a challenging 2026 season.
Medvedev, who defeated Francisco Cerúndolo 7-6(7-4) 6-3, will face Djokovic on Monday. Poland’s Hubert Hurkacz also advanced to the semi‑finals after a 7-6(7-2) 6-2 win over Karen Khachanov.
