Novak Djokovic has won his first match since reaching the Wimbledon semi-finals in July, beating Nuno Borges 6-3 7-6 (7-2) at the China Open in Beijing. The 39-year-old former world number one has now won 30 consecutive matches in Beijing, a run that stretches back to his first appearance at the event in 2015.
Djokovic has been dealing with an underlying health condition that causes particular issues in hot, humid conditions, as he revealed in August. That condition was clearly present in this match, where he struggled in the second set and needed a medical timeout to treat his right shoulder. He also used his racquet to help stretch his back between games during the contest.
The match lasted one hour and 50 minutes, and Djokovic will face wildcard Bu Yunchaokete of China in the second round. Playing in the tournament for the first time in 11 years, the Serb is bidding to win the China Open for a record-extending seventh time.
The Struggle in Beijing
Djokovic’s health condition has been a recurring theme throughout his recent career. He has spoken openly about how hot, humid weather exacerbates the issues he faces, and this match showed exactly why.
In the second set, Djokovic’s movement was clearly affected. He reached for his racquet between games to stretch his back, and he called for a medical timeout to receive treatment to his right shoulder. Despite those problems, he fought through to win the match.
The first set went smoothly, with Djokovic taking it 6-3. The second set was far closer, with Borges pushing Djokovic all the way until the tie-break. Djokovic won that 7-2 to seal the victory.
Borges Pushes Back
Nuno Borges was not an easy opponent. The Portuguese player put up a strong fight throughout the match, particularly in the second set, where Djokovic had to dig deep to hold off the challenge.
Borges kept Djokovic on the edge of his seat for much of the second set, where Djokovic had to dig deep to hold off the challenge. The second set was tight, and Borges pushed Djokovic all the way until the tie-break.
Djokovic’s ability to respond under pressure was on full display in this match. Even when his body was struggling, he found a way to close out the victory.
A Record Run in Beijing
Djokovic’s 30 consecutive victories in Beijing are part of a remarkable run that spans more than a decade. His first appearance in the city was in 2015, and this year’s appearance is his first in 11 years.
The record-extending seventh title bid adds extra weight to his performance. Winning a seventh title would mark a significant achievement in his career.
Beijing has been a happy hunting ground for Djokovic. The conditions suit him, and his record reflects that.
The Next Round
Bu Yunchaokete, the Chinese wildcard, will be Djokovic’s opponent in the second round. It will be a tough test for the local player.
Djokovic will need to be at his best to advance. The match against Yunchaokete will be a significant hurdle, and Djokovic will need to overcome any lingering effects from his shoulder injury.
The wildcard will be playing in front of a home crowd, which could provide a boost. Djokovic will need to manage his fitness carefully to avoid any further issues.
Boulter’s Win
While Djokovic dominated the men’s draw, Britain’s Katie Boulter secured her own place in the second round in the women’s competition. She defeated Mai Hontama of Japan in straight sets, winning 6-3 6-4.
Boulter, 30, will now face Czech seventh seed Karolina Muchova in the next round. The match will be a step up in quality, and Boulter will need to perform at her best to progress.
The British player has been consistent throughout the early rounds. Her straight-set win over Hontama shows she is in good form heading into the second round.
The Condition That Has Changed His Game
Djokovic’s health condition has clearly impacted his game. He has admitted that the hot, humid conditions affect him significantly, and this match was a reminder of how serious the issue is.
His willingness to speak openly about the problem is notable. The condition has forced him to adapt his approach to tournaments.
- Djokovic has won 30 consecutive matches in Beijing.
- His first appearance in the city was in 2015.
- This year’s appearance is his first in 11 years.
- He is bidding for a record-extending seventh title.
- His health condition affects him in hot, humid conditions.
| Match | Result |
|---|---|
| Djokovic vs Borges | 6-3 7-6 (7-2) |
| Boulter vs Hontama | 6-3 6-4 |
The China Open continues to be a special place for Djokovic. His record there is unmatched, and he looks set to add to it with each passing match.
Djokovic’s determination to succeed despite his health issues is admirable. He has faced significant challenges in recent years, yet he continues to produce results on the court.
The 39-year-old remains a formidable force in men’s tennis. His record in Beijing speaks for itself, and he will be a strong contender for the title.
The wildcard will be playing in front of a home crowd, which could provide a boost.
See the a run of 39 images at the BBC.
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