The match concluded prematurely with Djokovic leading 7-6 (7/3) in the first set and trailing 0-1 in the second. Despite the abrupt finish, the win maintains the 39-year-old's perfect record at the tournament, where he has now won all 34 matches he has contested. This triumph represents his first title in Beijing since 2015.
A Physical Battle Ends in Retirement
The final began as a demanding physical contest, with both players requiring medical intervention before the second set commenced. The opening set stretched beyond an hour of intense play, testing the endurance of both competitors. Following a medical timeout, de Minaur returned to the court with a white wrap applied to his left thigh. After securing the opening game of the second set, the world number nine was unable to continue, leading to his withdrawal from the match.
Addressing the crowd during the trophy ceremony, de Minaur expressed his disappointment regarding the conclusion of the final. The 27-year-old apologized to the spectators, stating that he did not want the match to end in such a manner. His path to the final had also been impacted by injury, as he advanced following the retirement of Hubert Hurkacz in the semi-finals on Monday.
Djokovic Reflects on a Challenging Season
For Djokovic, the victory serves as a significant milestone in a season he described as difficult due to ongoing physical and health concerns. Reflecting on his success in Beijing, the Serbian noted that while he always visualizes lifting the trophy, he has remained grounded regarding the realities of his current form and fitness.
The path to the final for the champion was equally unconventional, as he progressed through the semi-finals after Daniil Medvedev was disqualified for hitting a fan with a ball. Having now secured his seventh title in Beijing, Djokovic continues to build on his legacy in the tournament, successfully navigating a challenging week to add another trophy to his extensive collection.
