Novak Djokovic returns to action with a straight-set victory at the China Open, according to information published by BBC.
Novak Djokovic maintained his remarkable unbeaten record at the China Open as he beat Nuno Borges to secure his first win since reaching the Wimbledon semi-finals in July.
The 39-year-old former world number one struggled in the second set but came through to win 6-3 7-6 for his 30th consecutive victory in Beijing, appearing at the event for the first time since 2015, according to information published by BBC.
Playing in the tournament for the first time in 11 years, the Serb, a 24-time Grand Slam champion, is bidding to win the China Open for a record-extending seventh time.
Novak Djokovic health update and match struggles
Djokovic revealed in August that he has been dealing with an underlying health condition that causes particular issues in hot, humid conditions for the past couple of years and was far from his best against Portuguese player Nuno Borges.
During the second set, he used his racquet to help stretch his back between games and needed a medical timeout to receive treatment to his right shoulder during the hard-fought encounter.
Victory secures second-round clash in Beijing
Despite physical struggles and a tough second set tie-break, Djokovic battled to victory in one hour and 50 minutes to set up a second-round match against wildcard Bu Yunchaokete of China.
The 39-year-old veteran showed his enduring class in Beijing, overcoming physical adversity to keep his historic tournament streak alive and advance further in the ATP event.
Katie Boulter advances in women draw
Meanwhile, Great Britain player Katie Boulter is through to the second round in the women draw with a straight-set victory over Mai Hontama of Japan at the same venue.
Boulter, 30, claimed a 6-3 6-4 win and will now face Czech seventh seed Karolina Muchova in the next round of the tournament.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who did Novak Djokovic beat in his return match at the China Open?
Novak Djokovic defeated Nuno Borges in straight sets with a score of 6-3 7-6 to secure his first win since reaching the Wimbledon semi-finals in July.
How many consecutive victories does Novak Djokovic have at the China Open?
Novak Djokovic holds 30 consecutive victories at the China Open in Beijing, where he is competing for the first time since 2015.
Who is Novak Djokovic playing next in Beijing?
Novak Djokovic will face wildcard Bu Yunchaokete of China in the second round of the China Open tournament.
Which British tennis player advanced in the women draw?
Katie Boulter of Great Britain advanced to the second round after defeating Mai Hontama of Japan in straight sets.
