Novak outplayed top seed Alexander Zverev in three sets, 4-6, 6-4, 6-4, in a high-quality encounter to continue his bid for a record-extending seventh China Open title. In a semi-final showdown of two former world no.1 players, Djokovic will take on Daniil Medvedev on Monday.

Novak came back from a set down to keep his perfect record at the China Open alive. In a dramatic match on Friday evening in Beijing, Djokovic defeated Chinese wild card Bu Yunchaokete 4-6, 7-6 (2), 6-2. The sixth seed will face top seed Alexander Zverev in the quarter-finals on Sunday.

The Serbian No. 1 returned to action after a month-long break and opened his campaign with a win. Novak defeated world No. 49 Nuno Borges of Portugal 2-0 in the first round of the ATP tournament in Beijing, winning 6-3, 7-6(2).

Novak’s return to Chinese soil is scheduled for September 30, with the Serbian seeded No. 6. The organisers released the complete main-draw bracket on Monday.

The best Serbian tennis player will compete at the China Open in Beijing after 11 years, returning to the 500-series tournament where he has participated six times and won the title every single time.

Novak’s US Open campaign came to an end in the first round following a marathon battle with Argentina’s Mariano Navone, which featured several major momentum swings and was played in demanding weather conditions. After losing the opening set, the Serbian fought back to take a 2-1 lead, but a back injury ultimately halted his comeback and prevented him from performing at his best in the closing stages.