Tennis / Medvedev disqualified after hitting a spectator, Djokovic returns to the final

Novak Djokovic has returned to the final of the Beijing Masters. He secured his place, officially, thanks to the disqualification of Daniil Medvedev.

The Russian – who was losing 7-5, 5-3, while the Serb was serving for the match – was disqualified by the line judge after unintentionally hitting a ball toward the crowd. The ball struck a spectator in the eye; the person received immediate medical assistance and was taken to the medical centre. The match was stopped immediately and Medvedev was disqualified.

Djokovic last played in the Beijing final in 2025; the 39-year-old has won the tournament six times.

In the final, he will face De Minaur. Although Medvedev is known for his impulsive behaviour, this incident appears to have been an instinctive reaction – an action that has cost him dearly.