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Unstoppable Djokovic cruises into Shanghai Masters 2024 quarterfinals

Novak Djokovic secured his place in the quarterfinals of the 2024 Shanghai Masters 1000 after an impressive straight-set win, 6-3, 6-2, over Roman Safiullin.

Por: Alejandro Carrillo
Novak Djokovic round of 16 / Photo via ATP
Novak Djokovic round of 16 / Photo via ATP

The Serbian star Novak Djokovic showcased an extraordinary level of tennis, leaving no room for doubt about his form as he continues his journey in the tournament. Roman Safiullin, despite his best efforts, was unable to keep up with Djokovic’s powerful and precise play, struggling to find answers to the Serbian’s dominance.

 

Coming into this tournament, there were some questions surrounding Djokovic’s readiness, especially after not having played much competitive tennis recently. However, those doubts have quickly evaporated as Djokovic demonstrated his usual brilliance in the opening three rounds.

Novak Djokovic round of 16 / Photo via ATP
Novak Djokovic round of 16 / Photo via ATP

He fought through a challenging first match and then displayed increasingly polished performances in the subsequent rounds, including this commanding victory over Safiullin. Djokovic now heads into the quarterfinals with confidence, rhythm, and a clear focus on the title.

Dominant Djokovic

Safiullin managed to put up some resistance in the initial stages of the first set, using his flat, aggressive strokes to push Djokovic and keep the match competitive for a few games. However, once Djokovic increased his intensity and focus, the gap between the two players became evident.

 

Djokovic’s forehand was particularly effective, moving the ball around the court and pulling Safiullin out of position. By the time the first set ended, Djokovic had fully taken control of the match.

Novak Djokovic round of 16 / Photo via ATP
Novak Djokovic round of 16 / Photo via ATP

The second set was even more one-sided, with Djokovic fully in command. He minimized his errors and capitalized on Safiullin’s growing frustration, making the match feel like a foregone conclusion. Safiullin had no response to Djokovic’s relentless pace, and the Serbian quickly closed out the set, earning his spot in the quarterfinals.

Novak Djokovic round of 16 / Photo via ATP
Novak Djokovic round of 16 / Photo via ATP

Masterclass

What makes Djokovic’s performance so thrilling is how easily he seems to be slipping back into his top form. He is playing with precision, power, and purpose, qualities that he’ll need to maintain as he prepares for a quarterfinal clash against young Czech player Jakub Mensik.

 

Mensik, who has been impressive himself, comes into the match fresh off a victory over Grigor Dimitrov and has nothing to lose, making it an intriguing contest between generations.

Novak Djokovic round of 16 / Photo via ATP
Novak Djokovic round of 16 / Photo via ATP

Fans can expect an exciting matchup, as Djokovic looks to continue his march toward another title, while Mensik will be eager to cause a major upset.

The 2024 Shanghai Masters Round of 16 saw top seeds like Novak Djokovic, Daniil Medvedev, and Jannik Sinner advance with dominant performances. Djokovic breezed past Roman Safiullin, Medvedev overcame Stefanos Tsitsipas, and Sinner beat Ben Shelton. Carlos Alcaraz also triumphed, defeating veteran Gael Monfils to secure his spot.

 

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