Key Takeaways
- Novak Djokovic extended his unbeaten record at the China Open to 31-0 by defeating Chinese opponent Bu Yunchaokete 4-6, 7-6(2), 6-2.
- The 24-time Grand Slam champion was stunned by the crowd’s vocal support against a local player, stating: “I had to pinch myself.”
- Djokovic noted the difficult conditions and praised his opponent, remarking: “Packed stadium again for three hours — what a match to be a part of.”
Surprising support in Beijing
Novak Djokovic experienced an unexpected wave of vocal backing during his latest battle at the China Open, despite facing local favorite Bu Yunchaokete. The Serbian icon fought through difficult early moments to claim a 4-6, 7-6(2), 6-2 victory, extending his pristine career record at the Beijing tournament to 31-0.
Facing a home player often guarantees a partisan crowd firmly rooting against the visitor. However, the spectators inside the packed arena showed immense appreciation for the 24-time Grand Slam champion, leaving him taken aback.
“I had to pinch myself,” Djokovic admitted when reflecting on the crowd’s reaction. “I honestly did not expect that, playing against a Chinese player. I’m very thankful to them. I try to give them good performances on the court.”
Weathering the challenge against Bu Yunchaokete
The match itself demanded intense effort from Djokovic, who struggled physically early on and found himself under serious pressure during the second set. Tricky outdoor conditions added an extra layer of complexity to tactical play.
“I had to play very well. I had to serve well in the right moments,” Djokovic explained. “It was quite a breeze from one end of the court. I played kind of easier with the wind in my back than it facing you, so most of the breaks came from the side with the wind. He was so solid. I struggled to really find holes in his game and was hitting his spots really well with his serve.”
Djokovic gave full credit to his Chinese opponent for pushing him throughout the prolonged contest.
“He was mixing things up really well in the rallies from the back of the court with some short slices and coming in. Credit to him for playing well. The atmosphere was amazing. Packed stadium again for three hours — what a match to be a part of,” he added.
While Djokovic has often encountered hostile crowds or played the role of the antagonist throughout his storied career, this memorable night in Beijing offered an overwhelming display of appreciation as he reached the next stage of the tournament.
ATP Beijing - Novak Djokovic's projected path
Djokovic in Beijing, ranking, and results in 2026
Ranked no.11, Djokovic has managed to achieve an overall 17-7 win-loss record in 2026. Novak is competing in Beijing where he ousted the world no.49 Nuno Borges 6-3 7-6(2) and the world no.104 Bu Yunchaokete 4-6 7-6(2) 6-2.
The Serbian won 101 titles in his career: 52 on hard courts, 21 on clay courts, 20 on indoor courts and 8 on grass courts. (See the list of his titles)
