Novak Djokovic returns to the ATP Tour at the Rolex Shanghai Masters, his first event since his US Open semi-final defeat in early September. As he resumes his season, the 38-year-old is focused on closing the gap to Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner, who have shared the past eight majors since his 2023 US Open triumph.
Djokovic’s Recent Form and Rivalries
Djokovic has still posted key wins over both in recent seasons, including the Olympic gold medal match against Alcaraz in Paris in 2024 and the title match against Sinner at the 2023 ATP Finals. This year, however, he has fallen to Sinner in the semi-finals at Roland Garros and Wimbledon, and to Alcaraz in the last four at the US Open.
Ahead of Shanghai, Djokovic assessed where he stands in those rivalries and believes shorter, week-long events with best-of-three sets currently suit him best. He noted that reaching the semi-finals at all four Grand Slams this year underlines his level and consistency, and he remains driven to compete, with motivations that extend beyond trophies.
In Shanghai, Djokovic opens against Marin Cilic and is seeded to face Sinner in the semi-finals. Sinner leads their head-to-head 6-4 and has won the past five meetings, a run that began after the 2023 season finale, but Djokovic remains upbeat about his chances.
Family continues to be a major source of motivation. His children, Stefan and Tara, have often watched from the stands this season, with Tara’s celebratory dance alongside her father a memorable moment at Wimbledon. His family will not travel with him to Shanghai.
Djokovic is a record four-time champion in Shanghai, made his debut there in 2009, and views the tournament as a key stage for tennis in Asia. He holds a 39-6 match record at the event.
The Serbian enters the tournament at 31-10 on the year and captured his 100th tour-level title in Geneva. He is fourth in the PIF ATP Live Race To Turin and is well placed to qualify for the Nitto ATP Finals, scheduled for 9-16 November. With his experience and determination, Djokovic aims to reclaim his place at the top of the sport.