Novak Djokovic defeated Alexander Zverev in Beijing to reach the semifinals of the tournament, according to ANSA. The match was played on Sunday, October 4, 2026.
The result carried ranking implications beyond the court. According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Zverev's loss in Beijing means he gains only 90 points toward Jannik Sinner's position at the top of the rankings, making a move past the Italian impossible during the Asian swing of the tour.
Il Fatto Quotidiano framed the outcome as a gift from Djokovic to Sinner, since Zverev's early exit keeps him from closing the gap in the points race.
The match itself drew attention for more than the score. Sky Sport highlighted a passing shot from Zverev during the contest, while Sportmediaset reported that Djokovic reacted angrily on court toward the umpire and Zverev, calling one of the rules involved among the stupidest he had ever seen.
Djokovic advances to the semifinals in Beijing, where he continues his campaign. Zverev leaves the tournament having added little to his ranking total.
What to watch next: whether Djokovic can carry the form deeper into the Beijing draw, and whether Zverev's limited points haul in Asia leaves him with any remaining route to challenge Sinner before the season ends.
