Novak Djokovic Makes History in Beijing as Saudi Exhibition Postponed

Novak Djokovic continues to rewrite the tennis history books even as his immediate schedule faces disruption. The 39-year-old Serbian has just completed a perfect return to the ATP Tour in Beijing, securing his seventh China Open title and extending his unbeaten streak there to a staggering 34-0. This landmark victory comes amid news that his next planned appearance, at the high-profile Six Kings Slam in Saudi Arabia, has been postponed due to regional security issues.

Djokovic's latest triumph in Beijing is a record that may never be matched. By defeating Alexander Zverev in a tight quarterfinal and then going on to win the tournament, he pushed his flawless run at the China Open to 34 consecutive victories. That surpasses Rafael Nadal's famous 31-0 start at Roland Garros. The win also delivered Djokovic his 102nd career ATP title, moving him within one of Roger Federer's all-time record of 103. Even at 39, his ability to maintain this level against the world's best players shows a period of sustained excellence rarely seen in professional sport.

A lucrative exhibition event featuring Djokovic has been put on hold. The Six Kings Slam, which was set to take place in Riyadh from October 21-24 and stream live on Netflix, has been rescheduled for late December. Organisers cited "organisational and logistical challenges" stemming from continued attacks on Riyadh's airports by Houthi rebels. The ANB Arena, the tournament's venue, is located just 30km from the main international airport. The event promises a £1.2 million appearance fee per player with an extra £3.5 million for the winner. Djokovic was due to compete alongside Carlos Alcaraz, Alexander Zverev, Taylor Fritz, Alex de Minaur, and Learner Tien.

Fresh off his Beijing win, Djokovic reflected on the sport's demanding nature ahead of the Shanghai Masters. He highlighted the "brutal 'no-second-chances' reality" that defines a tennis career, especially regarding physical fitness. His comments came as he discussed the recent retirement of Kei Nishikori. Djokovic suggested Nishikori's "only regret" would be not being able to "stay healthier longer," noting that when fit, the Japanese star was a consistent top-5 talent. Djokovic, who leads their head-to-head 18-2, praised Nishikori for being a trailblazer as the first top-10 player from Japan and Asia.

Yes, the Serbian legend is also showing his role as a senior statesman of the tour. Following news that Jannik Sinner's season has ended due to injury, Djokovic confirmed he would reach out to the Italian star. This gesture points to the respect among the sport's top competitors, even as they battle fiercely on the court. Sinner had won the previous two editions of the now-postponed Six Kings Slam.

• KEY TAKEAWAYS:
• Novak Djokovic is now 34-0 at the China Open after winning the title on October 8, 2026.
• He holds 102 ATP titles, one short of Roger Federer's record.
• His next event, the Six Kings Slam in Saudi Arabia, is postponed to December 27-30 due to security concerns.
• Djokovic paid tribute to the retired Kei Nishikori and will contact the injured Jannik Sinner.