Djokovic reaches Beijing final after Medvedev disqualification

Yesterday 15:38

Novak Djokovic booked his place in the final of the ATP 500 tournament in Beijing on Monday after Daniil Medvedev was disqualified late in the second set, bringing an unexpected end to a closely contested semifinal.

The Serbian, ranked 11th in the world, was leading the former world No. 1 by a set and was just two points from moving within reach of victory when the match took a dramatic turn.

Medvedev disqualified after sending ball into the stands

Djokovic had taken the opening set 7-5 and led 5-3 in the second. With the score at 15-15, Medvedev reacted angrily after a ball bounced off the advertising boards at the back of the court.

The Russian returned the ball toward spectators seated behind the baseline, an action that ultimately resulted in the chair umpire issuing a disqualification.

The decision immediately ended the contest and handed Djokovic a place in the Beijing final without having to complete the match.

Djokovic returns to an ATP final

The qualification marks Djokovic's first appearance in a final since the Australian Open final in January. At 39, the Serbian now has an opportunity to add another major milestone to one of the most decorated careers in men's tennis.

His next challenge will come against Australia's Alex de Minaur, the world No. 9, in Tuesday's final.

The match will give Djokovic the chance to claim the 102nd singles title of his career, adding another chapter to his remarkable longevity at the top level of professional tennis.

For Medvedev, meanwhile, the tournament ended abruptly at a moment when he was still within striking distance of extending the semifinal. For Djokovic, the unusual conclusion secured another final and kept his pursuit of another ATP trophy alive in Beijing.