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Novak Djokovic advances to 78th Masters 1000 semi-final in Shanghai

Novak Djokovic secured a place in the semi-finals of the 2024 Shanghai Masters with a resilient victory over rising Czech star Jakub Mensik, winning 6-7(4), 6-1, 6-4.

Por: Alejandro Carrillo October 11, 2024

Novak Djokovic advances to semifinals at Shanghai Masters / Photo via ATP

The match was a true test of Novak Djokovic’s experience and skill, as he battled from a set down to reach what will be his 78th Masters 1000 semi-final. The win also keeps Djokovic in the hunt for his 100th ATP title, putting him just two victories away from achieving that milestone.

The 19-year-old Czech player, Jakub Mensik, who has impressed on the ATP Tour this year, including reaching the final in Doha, provided Djokovic with a tough challenge. The young Czech’s flat and incisive groundstrokes caused problems for Djokovic, especially in the first set. Djokovic looked to have the edge after securing a break in the ninth game, leading 5-4, but Mensik quickly broke back, showing his resilience and determination.

A thrilling tiebreak ensued, where Mensik raised his level even further. Djokovic, playing more conservatively than usual, was unable to fend off the young Czech’s aggressive play. Mensik clinched the tiebreak 7-4, taking a one-set lead and signaling that he was ready to fight for a spot in the semi-finals.

Closer to victory

However, as he has done throughout his career, Djokovic responded in the second set with remarkable poise. He immediately shifted gears, playing with more aggression and precision, and broke Mensik’s serve twice to take a commanding 6-1 win in the set. Djokovic’s ability to adapt and raise his game under pressure has made him a dominant tennis force for over a decade.

The third set was more competitive, with Mensik pushing Djokovic at every opportunity. But once again, Djokovic’s mental toughness and experience proved decisive. A crucial break in the fifth game gave Djokovic the advantage he needed, and he held his nerve to serve out the match 6-4, securing his place in the semi-finals.

Djokovic will now face seventh-seeded Taylor Fritz in the next round, with the possibility of meeting world No. 1 Jannik Sinner in the final. If Djokovic wins the Shanghai Masters, it will be another significant chapter in his remarkable career, bringing him closer to his 100th ATP title.

Experience triumphs

At 37, Djokovic continues to defy the expectations of age, showing the same resilience and hunger that have characterized his career. This win comes in the same week that Rafael Nadal, his long-time rival, announced his plans to retire at the end of the season. In his post-match interview, Djokovic paid tribute to Nadal, acknowledging their rivalry as the most significant of his career.

Despite the changing landscape of tennis, with new young talents like Mensik emerging, Djokovic remains a dominant force. His relentless pursuit of excellence and his ability to overcome challenges continue to set him apart as one of the greatest players in the history of the sport.

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Novak Djokovic advances to 78th Masters 1000 semi-final in Shanghai

Closer to victory

Experience triumphs

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Closer to victory

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