ATP Tour

Djokovic gives fitness update & discusses China's 'NoleFam' ahead of Beijing

Novak Djokovic is set to compete for the first time since his US Open first-round exit this week at the China Open in Beijing, where he begins against Portugal’s Nuno Borges.

The Serbian struggled physically during his defeat to Mariano Navone in New York four weeks ago, but played down any fitness concerns during Monday’s pre-tournament press conference in China.

“[I’m] feeling good so far,” Djokovic said. “Obviously it's completely different when you're playing an official match compared to the practice sets or practice sessions. But so far so good. 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.”

Djokovic has lifted the trophy on six occasions in Beijing (2009, ’10, ’12, ’13, ’14, ’15) and holds a standout 29-0 record at the ATP 500 event, according to the Infosys ATP Win/Loss Index. The 39-year-old has not competed at the tournament since 2015, though, but is pleased to be back.

“I have great record here. Always enjoyed playing in Beijing, in China in general, particularly here in Beijing,” Djokovic said. “Great support. Great atmosphere. Practice sessions and matches, there's a lot of love, a lot of support from Chinese tennis fans. I always look forward to that.

“I came here a few days early to try to get some practice sets and some hours spent on the court before I start to play. The facility has improved a lot. I mean, it was always a very impressive facility, one of the most impressive that we have in our sport. Back in 2008 it was built for the Olympic Games in Beijing. I remember playing in Lotus Court that is now the second court. Now obviously the big stadium has been built.”

The former No. 1 player in the PIF ATP Rankings also discussed the love he has and feels from the Chinese fans, having also won the ATP Masters 1000 title in Shanghai on four occasions.

“Other than winning, the best memories would be definitely my fans, the way they greet me, the way they support me, the way they show me love, how passionate they are about tennis,” Djokovic said. “My NoleFam here in China has been incredible, both Beijing and Shanghai, over the years. They definitely are the highlight and something I always take away anywhere I go in the world with me.”

Djokovic is chasing his 102nd title and first of the season this week. The 39-year-old’s best result this year came at the Australian Open, where he lost to Carlos Alcaraz in the final.