Serbiaâs Novak Djokovic turned back the clock in a thrilling showdown at the Shanghai Masters, defeating Spainâs Jaume Munar 6-3, 5-7, 6-2 to reach the quarterfinals at 38 years and four months. In doing so, he became the oldest player ever to reach the last eight of an ATP Masters 1000 tournament.
Against the backdrop of Shanghai, on the eastern coast of the Chinese mainland, Djokovic battled both sweltering humidity and a resilient opponent. After breaking Munar in the fourth game, he cruised to a 6-3 first set. Munar responded in the second, snatching it 7-5, but Djokovic regained control in the decider, breaking twice before sealing the match.
This milestone tops the previous record held by Federer, who reached Shanghaiâs quarterfinals in 2019 at 38 years and two months. Djokovicâs 24 major titles and relentless dedication to fitness continue to redefine longevity in modern tennis.
âTough day at the office. Very challenging physically. Luckily, I have the greatest support in the world. æç±äžæ”· (I love Shanghai),â Djokovic posted on X, acknowledging both the matchâs demands and the roaring hometown crowd.
Next up for Djokovic is Belgiumâs Zizou Bergs, setting the stage for another blockbuster clash as he chases yet another Masters crown.
As Djokovic continues to rewrite record books, his performance in Shanghai highlights the power of experience and resilienceâqualities that resonate with sports fans and changemakers around the world.
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Djokovic makes history again after defeating Munar at Shanghai Masters
cgtn.com
