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Djokovic fights back to secure semi-final spot at the Shanghai Masters

Novak Djokovic advanced to the Shanghai Masters semi-finals after a hard-fought battle against 19-year-old Jakub Mensik, coming back from a set down. Mensik, who surprised by eliminating two top-10 seeds to reach the quarter-finals, challenged the Serbian.

Por: Rubén Carrillo
Djokovic fights back to secure semi-final spot at the Shanghai Masters / Photo via courtesy
Djokovic fights back to secure semi-final spot at the Shanghai Masters / Photo via courtesy

However, Djokovic managed to recover and secure his place in the semi-finals of the ATP Masters 1000.

 

His next opponent will be seventh seed Taylor Fritz, who defeated David Goffin 6-3, 6-4 in his quarter-final match.

 

World No. 1 Djokovic had to fight hard to overcome world No. 65 Jakub Mensik.

 

The young Czech had achieved surprising victories on his way to the quarter-finals, including eliminating two of the tournament’s top players. Mensik started strong, winning the first set against Djokovic, which hinted at a possible upset. However, Djokovic raised his level in the second set and dominated the decider, winning with a final score of 6-7(4) 6-2 6-4.

Djokovic fights back to secure semi-final spot at the Shanghai Masters / Photo via courtesy
Djokovic fights back to secure semi-final spot at the Shanghai Masters / Photo via courtesy

“It was a tough battle,” Djokovic said. “We went toe to toe until the last moment, I was fortunate to find some great serves in the final game.” Djokovic, who is aiming for his 100th career title, will now face Taylor Fritz as he continues his quest to reach his first Masters final of the season.

 

In the first six games, Mensik managed to hold his serve despite Djokovic’s pressure, even saving two break points to take a 4-3 lead. Djokovic increased his attack in Mensik’s next service game and secured the first break of the match.

 

However, a missed drop shot gave Mensik his first break-point opportunity, which he capitalized on with a powerful forehand that Djokovic couldn’t return. Despite being the underdog, Mensik wasn’t intimidated by the situation and took the first set in a tiebreak after another powerful forehand that Djokovic couldn’t counter.

Djokovic fights back to secure semi-final spot at the Shanghai Masters / Photo via courtesy
Djokovic fights back to secure semi-final spot at the Shanghai Masters / Photo via courtesy

Mensik’s resistance weakened in the second set, allowing Djokovic to take control. The 24-time Grand Slam champion dominated on serve and converted both break points he had, racing through the set.

 

Despite Mensik’s efforts to stay in the match, Djokovic secured a crucial break in the third set.

 

While Mensik fought hard until the end, Djokovic closed out the match with a flawless service game, securing his place in the semi-finals.

Djokovic fights back to secure semi-final spot at the Shanghai Masters / Photo via courtesy
Djokovic fights back to secure semi-final spot at the Shanghai Masters / Photo via courtesy

The Match

The match between Djokovic and Mensik was a classic case of a seasoned veteran facing off against a young talent. Djokovic had to come back after losing the first set, something he has done numerous times throughout his career. This shows his ability to adapt and find solutions even when not playing his best initially.

 

  • First set: Mensik took the opening set in a tie-break, showcasing his power and confidence despite Djokovic’s reputation. He was able to capitalize on Djokovic’s missed opportunities, including a dropped shot that led to Mensik’s first break-point chance.

  • Second set: Djokovic, known for his ability to raise his game when needed, found another gear in the second set. He was dominant on serve and made fewer errors, allowing him to convert both break points and win the set comfortably.

  • Third set: The third set was more competitive, with Mensik fighting hard to stay in the match. However, Djokovic’s experience and clinical play in crucial moments, especially his ability to close out the match with a love hold, proved decisive.

Djokovic fights back to secure semi-final spot at the Shanghai Masters / Photo via courtesy
Djokovic fights back to secure semi-final spot at the Shanghai Masters / Photo via courtesy

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