The 2026 China Open final in Beijing ended in disappointment for Alex de Minaur, who was forced to retire with injury early in the second set, handing Novak Djokovic a record-extending seventh title at the event and the 102nd ATP Tour crown of his career.
Tense Final Ends Abruptly
The China Open men’s final was shaping up to be a compelling contest between world number 11 Novak Djokovic and Australia’s number one, Alex de Minaur, currently ranked ninth. After a fiercely contested first set, lasting 67 minutes and settled in a tiebreak in Djokovic’s favor 7-6 (7/3), both men required medical attention. Djokovic had ongoing physical issues, while de Minaur received treatment for an apparent groin injury.
Despite having his left thigh heavily strapped, de Minaur valiantly held serve to start the second set. However, he soon made the difficult decision to retire, approaching the net and conceding the match to Djokovic—a moment described as heartbreaking by both players and fans alike. The final score stood at 7-6 (7/3), 0-1, with Djokovic's unbeaten China Open record now at 34-0.
Djokovic Reaches New Career Milestone
With this triumph, Djokovic secured his seventh China Open trophy, returning to Beijing for the first time since 2015. This latest title marked the 102nd of his illustrious career, putting him within one title of Roger Federer’s 103, and further solidifying his position among the greatest ever. Only Jimmy Connors remains ahead, with 109 Open era titles.
Reflecting on his challenging season, Djokovic acknowledged the physical difficulties he has faced in 2026 but expressed satisfaction at being able to compete at the highest level in Beijing once more. Notably, his run to the title included victories over three top-10 opponents, a feat he last achieved three years ago, including a quarterfinal win over U.S. Open champion Alexander Zverev and a semifinal against Daniil Medvedev, who was disqualified.
A Disappointing End for De Minaur
For Alex de Minaur, the retirement was particularly tough. He had reached the final after his own semifinal opponent, Hubert Hurkacz, retired injured. De Minaur was seeking his second title of the year following a win in Rotterdam and his first Beijing crown. In his post-match remarks, the Australian apologized to fans, noting he “didn’t want to finish like this.”
