Novak Djokovic secured his first title of 2026 in Beijing, while Carlos Alcaraz successfully defended his championship in Tokyo.
Key facts
- •Novak Djokovic has now won 102 tour-level trophies in his career.
- •Djokovic is the first player to win a tour-level singles title in 21 consecutive seasons.
- •Alex de Minaur retired from the China Open final after one game of the second set due to a left thigh injury.
- •Carlos Alcaraz has now won 27 career titles, including three in 2026.
- •Alcaraz's Japan Open victory was his first title since returning from a four-and-a-half-month wrist injury.
Novak Djokovic captured his seventh China Open title on Tuesday after opponent Alex de Minaur retired due to a thigh injury. Simultaneously, Carlos Alcaraz successfully defended his Japan Open crown by defeating Jiri Lehecka in straight sets. Both players secured their respective victories following challenging periods, with Djokovic ending a title drought and Alcaraz returning to form after a lengthy injury layoff.
By the numbers
Djokovic Extends Perfect Beijing Record
Djokovic’s victory in Beijing maintained his undefeated record at the tournament, bringing his tally to 34-0 across seven appearances. The 39-year-old won the first set 7-6 before De Minaur, who had received medical treatment for his left thigh, retired after the opening game of the second set. This win marks Djokovic's 102nd career tour-level trophy and ensures he has won at least one title in each of the past 21 consecutive seasons.
Alcaraz Returns to Form in Tokyo
In Tokyo, 23-year-old Carlos Alcaraz defeated Jiri Lehecka 7-6, 6-4 to retain his Japan Open title. Despite being broken in the opening game, Alcaraz recovered to win the first-set tiebreak and secured a decisive break in the second set. This victory is Alcaraz's 27th career title and his third of the 2026 season, marking his first tournament win since returning from a four-and-a-half-month absence due to a wrist injury.
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This article was independently rewritten by ManyPress editorial AI from reporting originally published by Guardian Tennis, Anadolu Agency Sport.
