A Familiar Problem Returns in Beijing
Novak Djokovic may have secured back-to-back wins at the China Open in Beijing, but the manner of those victories has raised serious questions about the Serbian legend's physical condition. After defeating Nuno Borges in his opener, Djokovic then came from behind against Chinese wildcard Bu Yunchaokete in a draining three-set battle that had watching experts genuinely worried.
What made the situation particularly striking was how early the warning signs appeared. Djokovic looked visibly drained and repeatedly glanced toward his support team, seemingly puzzled by how poorly he felt even in the opening stages. Given that the conditions in the Chinese capital were not especially demanding, and that a best-of-three format should have suited him compared to a Grand Slam marathon, the energy levels he displayed were alarming.
Former British player Colin Flemming, commentating for Sky Sports, noted how curious it was that Djokovic actually appeared to grow stronger as each match progressed, looking more vulnerable at the start than at the finish.
Legends Weigh In on Father Time
John McEnroe addressed the situation directly at a media event, pointing out that Djokovic's early exit at the US Open against Mariano Navone was shocking given how well the 24-time Grand Slam champion had performed earlier in the season, reaching the Wimbledon semifinals and pushing Carlos Alcaraz hard. McEnroe acknowledged that age eventually catches every athlete.
Andy Murray, who briefly coached Djokovic in 2025, recently praised his former rival's mental strength while admitting the physical toll of competing into his late 30s makes everything harder to predict.
TennisDraw users had Djokovic penciled deep into the China Open bracket, though his current form is making those predictions look increasingly uncertain.
