Key Takeaways
- Mirra Andreeva described Novak Djokovic as an enduring source of motivation during the China Open, praising his ability to compete after winning every major prize.
- Novak Djokovic collected his 102nd career ATP singles trophy and 7th Beijing title, extending his tournament win record to 34-0.
- World No. 4 Mirra Andreeva reached her 11th quarterfinal of the 2026 season with a 6-2, 6-2 victory against Daria Snigur.
Mirra Andreeva draws drive from veteran Novak Djokovic
Competing at the China Open, 19-year-old Mirra Andreeva reflected on the remarkable longevity of Novak Djokovic, pointing to the 39-year-old as an enduring role model for competitors across both tours.
Djokovic secured his 7th China Open crown and the 102nd ATP singles title of his career in Beijing, maintaining a perfect 34-0 match record at the tournament. His latest triumph also extended his streak of capturing at least 1 tour-level trophy to 21 consecutive seasons. Andreeva took note of how the Serbian star continues to battle deep into tournaments despite having achieved virtually every major milestone available in tennis.
Praising his commitment, Andreeva stated that “what he’s doing is unbelievable” after witnessing his continued hunger to compete against top opposition. The reigning Roland Garros champion added that the veteran’s determination provides an example across the locker room, emphasizing, “For sure he’s a huge inspiration personally for me.”
Strong Beijing form continues for the Russian teenager
While tracking Djokovic’s run to the men’s silverware, Andreeva handled business in her own draw. The world No. 4 advanced to the quarterfinals in Beijing by dispatching Daria Snigur 6-2, 6-2 in just over an hour. The victory featured 5 service breaks, 18 winners and only 15 unforced errors from the teenager.
Earlier in the event, Andreeva rallied from 4-2 down in the opening set against Polina Kudermetova, taking 10 of the next 11 games to seal a 6-4, 6-1 victory. Her quarterfinal appearance marks her 11th run to the last 8 of a WTA tournament during a standout 2026 campaign, setting up a clash against compatriot Ekaterina Alexandrova.
ATP Shanghai - Novak Djokovic's projected path
Novak Djokovic in 2026
Ranked world no.11, the Serbian played his last match on the 6th of October when he beat world no.9 Alex De Minaur 7-6(3) 0-1 in the final in Beijing to win his 102nd career title.
At present, during this year Novak has achieved a compiled 19-7 record. Djokovic has won 1 title in Beijing.
