Novak Djokovic made a winning return to the China Open on Wednesday, defeating Portugal’s Nuno Borges 6-3, 7-6(2) to maintain his perfect record at the Beijing tournament. The victory was Djokovic’s first since Wimbledon and came in his first China Open appearance in 11 years.
The 39-year-old Serbian controlled the opening set by breaking Borges early and making the most of his strong serving. He saved two break points while leading 4-2 before closing out the set 6-3.
Borges raised his level in the second set and forced Djokovic into longer rallies, with the Serbian appearing to struggle physically. Djokovic received treatment from a physiotherapist during the set but managed to maintain his composure and force a tie-break.
Djokovic quickly established control in the decider, moving ahead 5-1 before earning four match points. Borges saved one opportunity, but the Portuguese player then sent a return into the net to hand Djokovic the victory after one hour and 50 minutes.
The result extended Djokovic’s China Open record to 30 wins without a defeat. The six-time champion is now through to the last 16 and continues his pursuit of a seventh title in Beijing.
Djokovic will next face Chinese wildcard Bu Yunchaokete, who advanced with a three-set victory over Argentina’s Juan Manuel Cerundolo.
The Serbian entered the tournament looking to regain momentum after an early exit at the US Open. Despite the physical difficulties he experienced against Borges, Djokovic said he was pleased with his serving and the way he handled the decisive tie-break.
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