Novak Djokovic overturns Alexander Zverev defeat to reach Beijing semi-finals

Novak Djokovic produced a major upset by eliminating world number two Alexander Zverev in the quarter-finals of the Beijing tennis tournament (500 points), recovering from a set down to win 2-1 on Sunday.

The 39-year-old Serbian, ranked 11th in the world, lost the opening set 6-4 before responding with two consecutive 6-4 victories. Djokovic used his experience in crucial moments to overcome Zverev, who is 10 years younger, and secure a place in the last four.

The result ended Zverev’s hopes of extending his run in the tournament and maintaining his push for the top of the world rankings. The German arrived in the match with strong ambitions after a series of impressive performances, but Djokovic’s experience in major competitions ultimately proved decisive.

Djokovic, a 24-time Grand Slam champion, raised his level after dropping the first set and took control of the contest in the second and third. His ability to manage the pressure of the key points allowed him to complete the turnaround against one of the leading players in the men’s game.

He will face sixth-ranked Russian Daniil Medvedev in the semi-finals. Medvedev reached the same stage by defeating Argentina’s Francisco Cerundolo in straight sets, winning 7-6 (7-4) and 6-3.

The semi-final will bring together two of the sport’s leading names, with Djokovic aiming to continue his progress after overcoming Zverev and Medvedev advancing without dropping a set.