Djokovic Wins China Open as De Minaur Retires, Alcaraz Retains Japan Open Title

Novak Djokovic secured his 102nd career title in Beijing, while Carlos Alcaraz marked his successful return from injury with a victory in Tokyo.

Published On 6 Oct 20266 Oct 2026

Novak Djokovic claimed the China Open title after opponent Alex de Minaur was forced to retire due to injury, while Carlos Alcaraz successfully retained his Japan Open crown, continuing his strong comeback from a prolonged wrist injury.

The 39-year-old Serbian triumphed in a tense first-set tiebreak 7-6 (7-3) and was leading by a game in the second set when the Australian was forced to concede the match on Tuesday.

With this victory, Djokovic extended his remarkable unbeaten streak in Beijing, securing the 102nd title of his illustrious career.

De Minaur took a medical timeout after dropping the first-set tiebreak but attempted to play on with his left thigh heavily bandaged. Ultimately, he had to withdraw after winning the opening game of the second set, leaving Djokovic ahead 7-6(3), 0-1.

“I don’t feel great … I want to say sorry to all the amazing fans,” De Minaur remarked during the trophy presentation.

“I didn’t want to finish like this … hopefully, I can see you all next year,” added the 27-year-old fifth seed.

Alcaraz Retains Japan Open Crown

Alcaraz overcame another slow start to cruise past unseeded Czech Jiri Lehecka 7-6(4), 6-4 in the Japan Open final on Tuesday.

This ATP 500 tournament victory marks Alcaraz’s third title of the year, following his wins at the Australian Open and Qatar Open. The 23-year-old was sidelined for nearly five months due to injury before making his return at the US Open in late August.

“I’m really happy to be able to lift a trophy again,” Alcaraz said. “It’s been a while, and obviously, it’s extra special after my injury and my comeback, in only the second tournament I’ve played since my return.

“It was a really tough week, and I didn’t play my best tennis or reach my best level, but I found good solutions, and that’s what matters in the end.”

Alcaraz became the first player to win back-to-back titles in Tokyo since American Pete Sampras captured the men’s singles crown in both 1993 and 1994.

The world number three started shakily, dropping his serve in the opening game. However, he quickly recovered, raising his intensity and breaking the serve of world number 19 Lehecka with a scorching backhand to level the match at 3-3.

More uncharacteristic errors from Alcaraz gave Lehecka hope during the tiebreak, but the Spaniard unleashed a sublime drop shot to clinch the opening set, paving the way for his 27th career title overall.

Alcaraz Says He ‘Trusted’ Himself

The seven-time Grand Slam champion took control midway through the second set, breaking to claim a 4-3 lead. He ultimately sealed the victory by forcing an error on match point, celebrating wildly with his team courtside.

Alcaraz noted that his triumph helped dispel the doubts that haunted him during his injury break.

“A lot of negative thoughts come to your mind,” Alcaraz added. “If you’re going to come back healthy, if you’re going to come back the same as you were before, if I will be able to hit the ball normally without pain. I trusted myself, and it worked out.”

Alcaraz will next compete at the Shanghai Masters, where he is scheduled to face Argentina’s Juan Manuel Cerundolo or a qualifier. The main draw of the ATP 1000 event begins on Wednesday.

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