Novak Djokovic Wins China Open As Alexandre de Minaur Retires
Novak Djokovic won his first ATP 500 title in four years, defeating Alex de Minaur in straight sets, 7-6, 0-1, after the Argentine player retired. Alex was impressive in the first set. He had his only break-point advantage in the fifth game, but Djokovic saved it. The set progressed into a tiebreak, and Djokovic won. However, Alex de Minaur was injured during the match and retired in the second set, despite an earlier lead. "I hadn't been here for 11 years," Djokovic recalled, winning the title in 2015. " I had a season full of difficulties and challenges; I didn't get many great results after the Australian Open." Djokovic had not reached the final of any ATP event since losing the Australian Open final to Carlos Alcaraz. He won his last ATP 500 title in 2022, defeating Stefanos Tsitsipas in Astana Open. "I didn't know how I would feel because the American tour was terrible in terms of sensation.s on the court, health, and physical condition...
