Novak Djokovic has indicated that his body feels "good" as he prepares to step back onto the court at this week’s China Open, following an unexpected first‑round defeat at the US Open. The Serbian star, who was chasing a historic 25th Grand Slam title, saw his campaign at Flushing Meadows come to an abrupt halt just four weeks ago when he was outplayed over five tightly contested sets by world No. 45 Mariano Navone. The match in New York was a grueling affair for the 39‑year‑old, who struggled with physical discomfort throughout the encounter, even vomiting several times on the humid court.
That loss marked the first occasion since the 2006 Australian Open that Djokovic has been knocked out in the opening round of a major tournament, underscoring how rare such early exits have been in his career. Now, Djokovic is turning his attention to the Beijing‑based China Open, a venue where he has historically thrived, having lifted the trophy on six separate occasions. "Yeah, feeling good so far," he told reporters. "Let’s see.
Obviously, it’s completely different when you’re playing an official match compared to practice sets or practice sessions. But so far so good." He added that his enthusiasm for returning to China remains high. "I was looking forward to coming to China, as I always have.
My record speaks for itself on Chinese soil. Knowing that, it also brings this dimension of confidence that I really need. Overall, it’s been really good so far with the body, the way I’m feeling and playing," the former world No. 1 explained.
Djokovic’s last appearance in Beijing dates back to 2015, when he captured his most recent title there. This year, he is slated to meet Portuguese player Nuno Borges, currently ranked No.
49, in the opening round. A win would set up a potential quarter‑final clash with Alexander Zverev, should both competitors advance. Zverev, who secured the US Open crown, is scheduled to open his campaign against Britain’s Cameron Norrie. The defeat to Navone had broader repercussions for Djokovic’s standing on the ATP Tour.
The loss caused him to slip out of the top ten for the first time in eight years, and it also jeopardized his chances of qualifying for the ATP Finals. He fell out of the top eight in the Race to Turin rankings, dropping to 15th place, which puts his season‑ending prospects in question.
With the China Open representing his eighth tournament of the year, Djokovic is still on the hunt for his first ATP Tour title of the season. Despite the setback in New York, he remains optimistic about regaining form on the fast indoor hard courts of Beijing, a surface that has historically complemented his aggressive baseline game and exceptional return skills. The Serbian’s preparation for the event has included a mix of light practice sessions and targeted fitness work designed to address the lingering fatigue he experienced in the United States.
He has been focusing on recovery protocols such as physiotherapy, hydro‑massage, and a tailored nutrition plan to ensure his energy reserves are fully replenished before the Beijing week begins. Analysts note that Djokovic’s experience on the Asian swing could prove decisive. His familiarity with the tournament’s conditions—ranging from the climate to the indoor arena’s lighting—often gives him a psychological edge over opponents who are less accustomed to the environment.
Moreover, his six‑title pedigree in Beijing provides a confidence boost that can translate into tighter shot selection and more aggressive play when the matches intensify. If Djokovic can combine his physical readiness with the mental fortitude that has defined his career, he could very well embark on a deep run in the China Open, potentially setting up a high‑profile showdown with Zverev in the later stages.
Such a matchup would not only be a test of skill but also a narrative clash between two players seeking to cement their legacies in the latter part of the season. Fans and commentators alike will be watching closely to see whether the Serbian’s body truly feels good enough to sustain the high‑intensity rallies that have become his trademark. The upcoming weeks will reveal if Djokovic can translate his optimistic statements into tangible results on the court, reignite his title chase, and perhaps re‑enter the conversation for the year‑end ATP Finals in Turin.