China Open Semi Final Ends in Chaos as Medvedev Hits Spectator

Beijing – In a startling turn of events at the China Open semi‑final on October 5, Denis Medvedev was disqualified after his return smashed into a fan seated behind the baseline. Novak Djokovic was serving at 7‑5, 5‑3, 15/15 when the incident occurred, instantly ending Medvedev’s challenge.

The Serbian star advanced to the championship match where he will meet Alex de Minière, a player he leads 3‑1 in head‑to‑head encounters. Djokovic’s performance in the semi‑final was marked by relentless baseline power, as he captured 16 of 18 break points and broke Medvedev’s serve twice in the second set.

Medvedev entered the match riding a wave of confidence after winning the Hangzhou title and hunting for an eighth consecutive tour‑level victory. The disqualification not only halted his momentum but also raised concerns about spectator safety.

Reflecting on the incident, Djokovic said, “It was a shocking moment. I feel sorry for the fan and for Denis, because I know how it feels to be disqualified in a big match.” He recalled his own experience at the 2020 US Open where a similar situation forced him out of the tournament.

With the final set away, Djokovic is now just one win from matching Roger Federer’s 102‑title record, a milestone only Jimmy Connors (109) has eclipsed.

The Beijing final will determine whether Djokovic can add another ATP 500 crown to his decorated career and move closer to the all‑time title leaderboard.