Nuno Borges vs Novak Djokovic Preview & Prediction | 2026 China Open | First Round

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Nuno Borges meets Novak Djokovic in the first round of the 2026 China Open at the National Tennis Center, Beijing, China.

Ranking points: ATP 500

Start date/time: 30 September 2026 at 12:00 pm

Venue: National Tennis Center, Beijing, China

Surface: Outdoor hard

How to watch on TV: UK – Sky Sports Tennis / USA – Tennis Channel

How to watch online: UK – Sky Go / USA – Tennis Channel

Tickets: Visit this link for the latest Nuno Borges vs Novak Djokovic ticket information

Nuno Borges vs Novak Djokovic prediction

Novak Djokovic will bid to maintain his flawless form in Beijing.

The Serb hasn’t featured at the China Open since 2015 but has won every match he has played at the tournament, boasting a 29-0 record that has propelled him to six titles.

The man tasked with looking to inflict a first ever loss here is Nuno Borges, who was narrowly beaten 7-6 6-4 in his only previous meeting with the 24-time Grand Slam champion in Athens last year.

The Portuguese is hoping to finish the season on a high by surpassing his previous best win tally set last year (30) and has been posting consistent results, although he fell at the first hurdle at the US Open.

Much will depend on the physical state of Djoker after his very public struggles in Cincinnati and the US Open. If he’s fit, there’s likely to be motivation to prove doubters wrong and keep his proud record going in China.

Borges should give him a test, but the veteran sixth seed should be too solid if he is well on court.

Nuno Borges vs Novak Djokovic tip: Over 18.5 games