Serving up an ace cultural experience

A trip without a dip into the profound culture is never a complete China Open experience, and tennis' top stars are enjoying a break from the grueling season to soak up Beijing's rich history and tradition.

With world-class facilities, top services and highest prize money in Asia on offer, the China Open never disappoints when it comes to delivering a major-caliber tournament experience for the glittering cast of men's and women's stars it attracts every year.

It's the incomparable "Beijing Experience", though, that sets it apart from the others in the same category, with international players presented with cultural experience trips or events to explore the Chinese capital's timeless heritage, folk customs and modern trends.

It's a treat that suits 24-time Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic perfectly, with the Serbian great, known for his inner strength and serenity when facing fierce on-court battles, rejuvenated after a pre-tournament visit to the Summer Palace, an imperial park in the northwestern Beijing suburbs known for its ancient grandeur and tranquility.

After taking a walk around the Kunming Lake to savor the serene ambiance of the park, Djokovic spent some time experiencing two quintessential Chinese traditions.

First, he tried his hand at water calligraphy by learning how to write the Chinese characters of his name with a big brush pen on the ground.