Novak Djokovic improved his record at the China Open to 25-0 by beating Simone Bolelli, 6-1, 6-1, in the first round in Beijing.
Rafael Nadal also advanced to the second round, beating the wild-card entry Wu Di by 6-4, 6-4. The third-seeded Nadal is in the uncharacteristic position of needing a strong finish to the season to qualify for the ATP Finals in London next month.
On the women’s side, the United States Open champion Flavia Pennetta rallied to advance to the third round with a 3-6, 6-0, 6-4 win over Teliana Pereira.