Djokovic defeats top seed Zverev to reach China Open semifinals

What the report says

Novak Djokovic advanced to the semifinals of the China Open in Beijing after defeating top seed Alexander Zverev 4-6, 6-4, 6-4 in a match reported by Al Jazeera on Sunday, October 5, 2026. The win extended Djokovic’s unbeaten record at the tournament, where he is a six-time champion, and kept alive his pursuit of a seventh title at the ATP 500 event. It also marked another strong result in a season he has described as difficult because of injury-related problems.

According to the report, Zverev started well and took the first set, helped by a powerful serving display that included 19 aces. Djokovic then recovered, leveling the match late in the second set before breaking again late in the third to close out the contest in two hours and 35 minutes. The article also noted a brief dispute over electronic advertising signage and a replayed point after Zverev raised concerns during a rally.

Djokovic said after the match that he had begun poorly but was pleased to stay composed in key moments. He is now set to meet Daniil Medvedev in the semifinals after Medvedev beat Francisco Cerundolo earlier in the day, as reported by Al Jazeera. In broader context, the result matters because Djokovic is still seeking his first trophy of the year while Zverev remains in contention in the race for the world No. 1 ranking.