Shenzhen, Oct. 5 -- Novak Djokovic advanced to the China Open final after Daniil Medvedev was defaulted during their semi-final clash in Beijing.

The record six-time champion was serving for the match at 7-5, 5-3, 15/15 when a ball rebounded off the back wall. Medvedev instinctively struck the ball, sending it into the crowd where it hit a spectator, resulting in his default.

Djokovic has now reached his first ATP 500 final since winning the title in Astana in 2022. He will face fifth-seeded Australian Alex de Minaur in Tuesday's championship match. Djokovic leads their ATP head-to-head series 3-1.

"A bit of a shock, to be honest," Djokovic said. "Sorry for the person [who got hit]. I honestly didn't see what happened. I hope that pers...