Russian tennis star Daniil Medvedev was disqualified during his semi-final match against Novak Djokovic in Beijing.
Daniil Medvedev was disqualified from the China Open after hitting a spectator in the face with a tennis ball during his high-stakes semi-final match against Novak Djokovic on Sunday, October 5, 2026.
The incident occurred in the second set when a frustrated Medvedev swiped at a backhand in annoyance, accidentally launching the ball into the front row of the stands and injuring a fan who required medical assistance, according to information published by BBC.
Following consultations with umpire Mohamed Lahyani and an ATP official, the Russian player received an immediate default, bringing a premature and dramatic end to the tournament clash in Beijing.
Why was Daniil Medvedev disqualified in Beijing?
Defaults in professional tennis are extremely rare and happen only when players violate the strict sport code of conduct, which includes ball abuse, racquet abuse, or physical and verbal abuse.
While players usually receive up to three code violations before facing a disqualification, Medvedev committed an infraction severe enough for chair umpire Mohamed Lahyani to instantly default him from the match.
As a direct consequence of the default, the 30-year-old athlete will forfeit all ranking points and prize money earned at the tournament, missing an opportunity to return inside the world top five rankings.
Novak Djokovic reaction to the incident
Serbia's Novak Djokovic was leading 7-5 5-3 when the sudden default took place, securing his progression to the final of the China Open where he is set to face Alex de Minaur.
Djokovic expressed immediate concern for the injured spectator and also voiced deep sympathy for his opponent, noting that he understands the heavy emotional toll of a major disqualification.
The 39-year-old legend recalled his own similar default at the 2020 US Open, emphasizing his firm belief that Medvedev never intended to harm anyone in the arena.
History of on-court controversies
Known as a combustible character on the ATP Tour, Daniil Medvedev has frequently struggled to control his fierce competitive emotions throughout his professional tennis career.
Last year at the US Open, he experienced a severe meltdown after a photographer walked onto the court, resulting in a heavy fine of almost 31,500 pounds for his unsportsmanlike behavior.
Earlier in April, the Russian player completely destroyed a racquet following a crushing defeat at the Monte Carlo Masters, continuing a pattern of volatile outbursts on the court.
Upcoming finals at the China Open
Despite the abrupt and shocking conclusion to the semi-final, the tournament schedule continues with Novak Djokovic pursuing another title in his illustrious career.
Djokovic boasts an incredible 33-0 record at the China Open in Beijing, having previously claimed the prestigious tournament trophy on six separate occasions.
Meanwhile, in the Japan Open, defending champion Carlos Alcaraz overcame early struggles to reach the final, where he will face Czech player Jiri Lehecka.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was Daniil Medvedev disqualified at the China Open?
Daniil Medvedev was disqualified from his semi-final match against Novak Djokovic after hitting a spectator in the face with a tennis ball in Beijing.
Who will Novak Djokovic play in the China Open final?
Novak Djokovic advanced to the final of the China Open to face Alex de Minaur following the sudden default of his opponent Daniil Medvedev.
Has Novak Djokovic ever been defaulted from a tennis match?
Yes, Novak Djokovic was famously defaulted from the 2020 US Open for accidentally hitting a ball and striking a tournament linesperson.
