NOVAK Djokovic beats Roman Safiullin to reach the quarter-finals of the Shanghai Masters for the 10th time.
The four-time record holder was forced to work hard to win 6-3 and 6-2 so he remains in contention for his 100th title at tour level.
If Djokovic lifts the trophy in Shanghai, he will become the third man to achieve this feat in the Open Era — after Jimmy Connors and Roger Federer.
Also read: Novak Djokovic Advances to Third Round of Monte Carlo Mastres
“The matches last night and tonight were, perhaps, some of the best matches I’ve ever played, so I just enjoyed myself on the court,” said Djokovic, quoted from ATP, Thursday (10/10).
“When you play well and feel good, of course there is a lot of joy in hitting a tennis ball on the court.”
“The sensations I feel on the tennis court are some of the reasons why I keep playing and keep competing because I really believe that I can play at a very high level. Now, what’s important is to keep that consistency and also have fun off the court ,” continued the Serb, who improved his win-loss record to 35-8 this season.
Also read: Cursing the referee at the Shanghai Masters, Frances Tiafoe apologizes
Djokovic, who won 3-0 in his head to head with Safiulin, showed resilience to save 100% (3/3) of break points
faced, according to ATP statistics.
After extending his lead in tournament victory, Djokovic will face #NextGenATP star Jakub Mensik, who beat Grigor Dimitrov 6-3, 3-6 and 6-4.
The 19-year-old Czech Rep, who earned his fourth straight win against Top 10 players, became the youngest quarter-finalist in Shanghai Masters history.
Also read: Stefanos Tsitsipas meets Daniil Medvedev in the last 16 of the Shanghai Masters
Safiullin withstood a tumultuous start from Djokovic, landing a forehand right on the line to save a break point in the second game.
However, he was unable to repeat that performance to convert the two break chances he had in the fifth game, while his 37-year-old opponent served his way out of trouble with
easy.
Djokovic, who has won a record 40 ATP Masters 1000 titles, remained in control to capitalize on Safiullin’s error-strewn eighth game and storm into the lead.
The second set was easier for Djokovic as he managed to break twice and cruised across the finish line.
Djokovic, currently, is eighth in the ATP Live Race To Turin. His strong performance in Shanghai will increase his chances of securing a place at the ATP Finals in a bid to extend his record run of seven titles. (Ant/Z-1)
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Analysis of Novak Djokovic’s Advances to Shanghai Masters Quarterfinals for Tenth Time
Novak Djokovic, the four-time record holder of the Shanghai Masters, has secured a spot in the quarterfinals of the tournament for the tenth time, after overcoming Roman Safiullin with a hard-won 6-3 and 6-2 victory [[1]]. This achievement keeps Djokovic in the running for his 100th title at tour level, a milestone that only Jimmy Connors and Roger Federer have achieved in the Open Era.
Djokovic’s impressive performance in the tournament so far, as reported by ESPN [[1]], showcases his unwavering dedication to his craft and his unrelenting pursuit of excellence. His post-match comments, as recorded by the Rolex Shanghai Masters [[2]], reveal a player who is savoring every moment on the court and finding joy in his game. “The matches last night and tonight were, perhaps, some of the best matches I’ve ever played, so I just enjoyed myself on the court,” he said. This mindset is undoubtedly a driving force behind his success.
What’s interesting to note is that Djokovic has been embracing his downtime in Shanghai, as evident from his fun photo shoot, where he was seen going full tourist [[3]]. This lighthearted side of Djokovic humanizes him and reminds us that, even at the pinnacle of his sport, he still finds time to appreciate the little things and enjoy life.
As Djokovic advances to the quarterfinals, it’s clear that his focus is on securing his 100th title. His win over Flavio Cobolli in the previous round was a testament to his skill and endurance, which will undoubtedly serve him well in the matches to come. Will he emerge victorious in Shanghai and join the exclusive club of players with 100 tour-level titles? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain – Djokovic’s journey to the top will be an exciting one to watch.
Novak Djokovic’s progress to the Shanghai Masters quarterfinals is a testament to his hard work, dedication, and passion for the sport. With his sights set on securing his 100th title, Djokovic is on the cusp of making history, and fans around the world will be eagerly watching his journey unfold.
