29 wins, six titles, zero defeats: Novak Djokovic returns to China Open 11 years after shock exit from US Open

Novak Djokovic (Image: AP) Novak Djokovic is set to return to a tournament where he has never lost a match, with the 24-time Grand Slam champion confirming his participation at the China Open after an eleven-year absence. The Serb, who boasts a perfect 29-0 record and six titles at the Beijing event, will return after a tough US Open campaign that ended with a first-round defeat.Djokovic announced his return on social media on Wednesday, sharing a message in both Chinese and English to express his excitement at playing in front of Chinese fans again.

Djokovic recalls the success of Beijing before the China Open comeback

Djokovic expressed his excitement at returning to Beijing and thanked the Chinese fans for their continued support throughout his career.“I am very happy to announce that I am returning to Beijing after many years to play in the China Open. I am so excited to be back and perform in front of you all at the National Tennis Center, one of the most beautiful places in tennis, a place where I have incredible memories and great achievements throughout my career,” he said in a video shared on Instagram.“I want to thank all the Chinese fans for their love and support over the years,” he added.Djokovic won all 29 of his matches at the China Open, lifting the singles trophy in 2009, 2010, 2012, 2013, 2014 and 2015.His last appearance came in 2015 when he defeated Nadal 6-2, 6-2 in the final. Djokovic was the defending champion in 2011 but withdrew from the tournament with a back injury, leaving his unbeaten run in Beijing intact.

Djokovic looks set to bounce back from US Open disappointment

Djokovic’s return to Beijing comes after a disappointing campaign at the US Open, where he suffered a shock first-round exit against Argentina’s Mariano Navone. The fourth-seeded Serb lost 7-6(5), 5-7, 4-6, 6-2, 6-1 in a four-hour, 36-minute encounter at Arthur Ashe Stadium in New York.Djokovic started strongly and took a two sets to one lead, but struggled physically as the match progressed. Navone took advantage of the Serbian’s struggles to take the final two sets to seal a memorable victory.The defeat marked Djokovic’s first opening-round loss at a Grand Slam since 2006, making his upcoming appearance at the China Open an opportunity to return to winning ways at a familiar venue.