Djokovic sets historic record at Shanghai Masters

Novak Djokovic defeated Marin Cilic 7-6(2), 6-4 in the second round of the Shanghai Masters. This victory helped Nole advance to the next round and set an unprecedented record with Cilic.

Djokovic beat Cilic in round 2 of Shanghai Masters - Photo: REUTERS

The match between Djokovic and Cilic made history in the ATP 1000 tournament system when it became the match with the oldest total age (75 years and 139 days). At the age of 37, Cilic still showed a resilient fighting spirit. He only lost one service game in the entire match.

And that was all Djokovic needed to end the match in just two sets. After this defeat, Cilic became the 7th player in history to lose 20 or more matches to Djokovic.

Speaking after the match, Djokovic admitted: "Cilic, when he has a good feel for the ball, is very dangerous and can beat anyone.

I was under a lot of pressure today. He played better in the first set, not giving me time to breathe. I think I got myself out of trouble thanks to my good serve."

In addition to his consistent serve, Djokovic relied on a solid forehand and committed just three unforced errors. He saved all four break points he faced and successfully took advantage of the only return game at the start of the second set, thereby finishing his opponent in just two sets.

Four-time Shanghai Masters champion Novak Djokovic will face Yannick Hanfmann in the third round. Looking back on the 2025 season, Nole proudly said: "I lost to the two best players in the world , Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz. But overall I played well in the Grand Slams, reaching the semi-finals in all four tournaments. That speaks to my class and consistency. But there is still a part of me that always wants to win and be the best."

Djokovic also frankly shared his motivation to continue playing: "I don't play tennis just to win and win titles. I want to continue playing because of the love of the fans and the desire to develop this sport ."

However, Nole expressed his dissatisfaction with the Masters being extended for two weeks. "I always oppose the extension of the Masters 1000 tournaments to two weeks. I see many players complaining about the obligation to compete, but then they sign up to play exhibition matches. That's quite contradictory. The tennis world is not united enough. We complain, but we don't really take action to change anything."

The Shanghai Masters runs from October 1 to 12. This year's tournament will be without world number one Carlos Alcaraz due to injury.

TUAN LONG

Source: https://tuoitre.vn/djokovic-lap-ky-luc-lich-su-tai-thuong-hai-masters-20251004080805081.htm