Novak Djokovic says he is physically encouraged ahead of his return to competitive tennis at the China Open in Beijing. The 24-time Grand Slam champion is aiming to regain momentum after recent health issues, stepping back onto the court for his first match since a surprising early exit at the US Open late last month. As I always have, i was looking forward to coming to China.
During his opening-round defeat against Mariano Navone in New York, the 39-year-old Serbian was hampered by back and shoulder injuries and vomited during the contest. Now ranked world number 11, Djokovic will open his Beijing campaign against Portugal’s Nuno Borges in the first round this week. The world number 11 will look to put those problems behind him when he takes on Portugal’s Nuno Borges in the first round in Beijing this week.
speaking to reporters on Monday, the six-time China Open champion noted that his physical condition has been promising. “Yeah, feeling good so far,” Djokovic said. “Let’s see. Obviously it’s completely different when you’re playing an official match compared to practice sets or practice sessions. But so far so good.”
Djokovic holds a perfect 29-0 record at the ATP 500 event, having lifted the trophy in 2009, 2010, 2012, 2013, 2014, and 2015. Reflecting on his past success, he mentioned that returning to China brings a necessary boost of confidence, noting that his body, feeling, and play have all aligned well during preparations. My record speaks for itself on Chinese soil. The history of my results on Chinese soil has been incredible.
While chasing an unprecedented 25th Grand Slam crown remains a primary goal, the former world number one has tailored a far more selective schedule in recent years. “At this stage of my career it’s really also about the tournaments where I enjoy to play, where I’ve had the success in the past, where I feel like I’m also welcomed by the fans in a positive light, in a positive way,” Djokovic added.
Having not played in Beijing for 11 years due to past scheduling constraints that limited his appearances in China strictly to Shanghai, Djokovic emphasized that returning to the capital was a top priority this season. I haven’t played here 11 years.
