China Open 2026: Novak Djokovic Reaches Final After Daniil Medvedev Is Disqualified for Hitting Spectator With Ball
Novak Djokovic advanced to the China Open 2026 final after Daniil Medvedev was controversially defaulted during their semi-final in Beijing on Monday, October 5, 2026. Djokovic led 7-5, 5-3, 15-15 when Medvedev accidentally hit a spectator with a ball.
World No. 6 Novak Djokovic has advanced to his seventh China Open final, albeit under unusual circumstances, after his semi-final opponent Daniil Medvedev was defaulted from their high-stakes encounter on Monday, October 5, 2026. The incident occurred with Djokovic leading 7-5, 5-3, and serving at 15-15 in the second set, just points away from victory. China Open 2026: Aryna Sabalenka Knocked Out by Qualifier Nikola Bartunkova.
Daniil Medvedev Disqualified After Hitting Spectator With Ball
Not the ending we expected 😮
@DjokerNole advances to the Beijing final after Medvedev is defaulted whilst down 5-7 3-5
#ChinaOpen https://t.co/Pae5eNrJ6W
— Tennis TV (@TennisTV) October 5, 2026
The dramatic turn of events unfolded when, after losing a point, Medvedev, 30, struck a ball that had ricocheted off the back wall. The ball unfortunately hit a spectator in the front row of the stadium. Despite Medvedev's assertion that it was "100 per cent an accident" and not born of anger, the chair umpire, in accordance with ATP rules, was left with no option but to disqualify the Russian. The injured fan was escorted out of the stadium.
Daniil Medvedev's Apology and Novak Djokovic's Empathy
Speaking after the match, a remorseful Daniil Medvedev expressed his profound regret. "Terribly sorry to the spectator," Medvedev stated, adding, "Trying to get in touch with him if he wants it. Hopefully I can apologize in person and see how he feels."
Novak Djokovic, 39, who now boasts a perfect 33-0 record at the China Open, acknowledged the shock of the situation and offered sympathy to his opponent. "A bit of a shock, to be honest," Djokovic commented. "Sorry for the person [who got hit]. I honestly didn't see what happened. I hope that person is not badly injured." He further added, "On the other hand, I also feel sorry for Daniil, because I know exactly how he feels to be disqualified in a big match. I was disqualified at the 2020 U.S. Open in similar circumstances."
Medvedev's default means he will forfeit both his ranking points and prize money ($219,295) earned at the tournament.
Road to the Final and Head-to-Head
Prior to the default, the semi-final was a grueling battle, with the first set alone lasting nearly 80 minutes. Djokovic showcased remarkable resilience, saving an impressive 16 of 18 break points against his serve, while converting four of his ten opportunities on Medvedev's serve. Japan Open 2026: Carlos Alcaraz Beats Jaume Munar, Sets Up Final Against Jiri Lehecka.
This controversial win sends Djokovic into the final against Australia's Alex de Minaur, who advanced after his opponent Hubert Hurkacz retired in their semi-final with De Minaur leading 6-4, 3-2. The final is scheduled for Tuesday, October 6, 2026.
Player Statistics (Prior to Semifinal)
| Player | Age (Oct 6, 2026) | ATP Ranking (approx.) | China Open Titles | Head-to-Head vs. Medvedev (Djokovic-Medvedev) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Novak Djokovic | 39 | World No. 6 | 6 | 10-5 |
| Daniil Medvedev | 30 | World No. 5 | 0 | 5-10 |
Note: Djokovic has won all six of his previous China Open finals.
Djokovic will be aiming for an unprecedented seventh China Open title in his perfect run at the tournament. The final against Alex de Minaur promises another compelling contest as the veteran Serb seeks to extend his remarkable legacy in Beijing.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Oct 06, 2026 10:06 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).
