Daniil Medvedev disqualified from China Open after hitting spectator with ball

Match ended by disqualification

Medvedev defaulted immediately after striking a fan in the front row while trailing 7-5, 5-3 against Novak Djokovic. The incident occurred late in the second set when Medvedev hit a rebounding ball with his racquet into the stands. Djokovic advanced to the final with an unblemished record at the tournament following this result.

Other semifinal outcome

Hubert Hurkacz retired from his match due to an apparent adductor injury midway through the second set. Alex de Minaur defeated the Polish player to reach the final against Djokovic for Tuesday night. The Australian had led 6-4, 3-2 before his opponent stopped playing.

Player statements and context

Medvedev told reporters that the incident was an accident and he wished to apologise to the fan in person. Djokovic expressed sympathy for both the spectator and Medvedev, noting he had been disqualified from the 2020 US Open for a similar issue. The spectator held his left eye as staff helped him out of the arena.