Djokovic, after his feat in Beijing: “Tenacity is not something you are born with. You have to build it, develop it, and it develops in those weeks or days when no one is watching”

This Tuesday was a great day for Novak Djokovic. The Serbian made history after winning his seventh China Open title, an achievement at 39 years old, and after defeating players of the caliber of Alexander Zverev and Daniil Medvedev along the way.

“I will return to Beijing, for sure. In what role and how, I still don’t know“, he declared in the press conference after his victory against the Australian Alex de Minaur, who retired due to injury with the score at 7-6 (3) and 0-1.

Asked if he will return as a player or prefer to leave his record intact, the seven-time champion of this tournament gave a nod to his unbeaten record in Beijing. “I would also like this streak to continue undefeated next year“, said.

Djokovic has won all 34 matches he has played in Beijing and this week surpassed the 31 victories with which Rafael Nadal began his career at Roland Garros, the previous best start by a player in a tournament in the ‘Open’ era.

The Serbian lifted the trophy again eleven years after his last participationin a final of one hour and 14 minutes on the hard court of the Diamond center, and debuted his 2026 record with the 102nd title of his career.

The conquest came after months of physical and health difficulties and, as he explained, “at the best possible moment”, as a boost of confidence and proof that he can still play at the highest level.

“I don’t know if I will play the tournament. I would like to,” he said about the next edition. “I’m more guided by how I feel, how well I play or how quickly I can recover.“he added.

He also explained how he sustains his ability to resist in decisive moments. “Tenacity is not something you are born with“he stated.”You have to build it, develop it, and it develops in those weeks or days when no one is watching.“he added.

That dedication, he added, encompasses both training and his lifestyle and also responds to the responsibility to the fans who travel to see him compete.

Djokovic recalled a reflection by former NBA player Kobe Bryant about those who may only have one opportunity to witness a performance by their idol and linked that idea to his effort on the court.

“You don’t play just for yourself. You play for the people. You play for sport“he concluded.