Novak Djokovic continues to defy time and expectations in another display of grit and greatness. Moreover, the 38-year-old Serbian champion battled the physical exhaustion, heat, and spirited component to seal his place in the semi-final of the Rolex Shanghai Masters 2025. Hence, he goes edge closer to a record-extending fifth title at the ATP Masters 1000 event.
Djokovic overcame Belgium’s Zizou Bergs 6-3, 7-5 after one hour and 52 minutes of intense play in Shanghai, China, on Thursday, 9 October 2025. However, the victory marked yet another milestone in his impressive career. Moreover, it makes him the oldest semi-finalist in Master 100 history at 38 years 140 days. In addition, his record is also extended to an astonishing 80 Masters 1000 semi-final appearances.
A Grueling Match Under Extreme Conditions
The match was far from straightforward, as Djokovic was struggling with cramps, leg discomfort, and dehydration throughout the week. Still, he once again showed remarkable endurance. However, he frequently crouched in pain, especially during the seventh game of the first set that stretched over nine minutes.
Despite the visible fatigue, the 24-time Grand Slam champion refused to yield. After a brief respite, he regrouped and depended on his experience and mental toughness to close the first set 6-3.
The second set was a tighter affair, with both players exchanging breaks. Initially, Djokovic served for the match at 5-4. However, Bergs showed resilience and broke back to level 5-5. On the other hand, Djokovic created one of the points of the tournament. Moreover, he repelled many overheads before sealing another break and serving out the win on his third match point.
Djokovic said in a post-match presentation, “I was just trying to stay alive on the court. The conditions were really tough. My opponent played with great intensity, and I had to dig deep to find the energy. I should have closed the match earlier, but I am happy to overcome this challenge.”
Novak Djokovic: Chasing a Record 41st Masters 1000 Title
Now, Djokovic is two wins away from a record-extending 41st Masters 1000 crown and his first since the 2023 Rolex Paris Masters. In addition, his next challenge comes in the form of Valentin Vacherot, who has been the surprise story of the tournament.
Vacherot stunned the 10th seed Holger Rune 2-6, 7-6(4), 6-4 to reach his maiden Masters 1000 semi-final. Moreover, he will make his Top 100 ATP rankings debut after the heroics of this week. In addition, the qualifier had special support in the stand, as his cousin and fellow French player Arthur Rinderknech cheered him on.
Vacherot has been the Cinderella story of Shanghai, as he faces Djokovic will be a new test. Moreover, the Serbian already captured a title earlier this season at the Geneva Open ATP 250. Hence, he remains hungry for more success as he eyes a second trophy in 2025.
What’s Next in Shanghai
Novak Djokovic stands as one of the just four seeds remaining in the tournament. Notably, all other seeded players are on the opposite side of the draw. However, this could clear the way for a dream final against the likes of Daniil Medvedev, Alex de Minaur, or Felix Auger-Aliassime.
Now, all eyes are once again on Djokovic, as the Rolex Shanghai Masters 2025 enters its final stretches. Moreover, the living legend continues to redefine limits in professional tennis. In addition, his resilience, experience, and sheer willpower have made him more than his competitors. On the other hand, it is a symbol of longevity in modern sports.
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