Djokovic Battles Through Heat to Reach Shanghai Quarterfinals
Shanghai, China — October 9, 2025 — Novak Djokovic advanced to the quarterfinals of the 2025 Rolex Shanghai Masters, defeating Spain’s Jaume Munar in a three-set battle, 6-3, 5-7, 6-2. Despite a left leg injury and extreme humidity, the World No. 1 dug deep to claim victory.
Djokovic Overcomes Physical Struggles in Shanghai
The match tested Djokovic’s limits. With Shanghai’s humidity soaring above 80%, the Serbian was seen using ice towels, taking medical timeouts, and at one point collapsing on his bench during a changeover.
“It was a brutal day,” Djokovic said. “The conditions were very challenging, and my body was not at 100%, but I found a way to push through.”
Despite losing the second set, Djokovic stormed back in the third with a quick break and closed the match in just under three hours.
Zizou Bergs: The Breakout Star of Shanghai 2025
Djokovic’s next opponent is Zizou Bergs, a 24-year-old Belgian who is having the tournament of his life. Ranked outside the ATP Top 100 entering the tournament, Bergs upset Casper Ruud, then outlasted Gabriel Diallo in a third-set tiebreak to reach his first Masters 1000 quarterfinal.
Bergs’ Road to the Quarterfinals
- Defeated Casper Ruud (Round 2)
- Defeated Gabriel Diallo (Round of 16)
- Known for: explosive forehand, relentless energy, and baseline power
This will be the first career meeting between Djokovic and Bergs.
Djokovic vs Munar: Key Match Stats
| Stat | Djokovic | Munar |
| Aces | 7 | 4 |
| Double Faults | 2 | 3 |
| First Serve % | 66% | 69% |
| Break Points Won | 4/7 | 2/8 |
| Winners | 28 | 21 |
| Unforced Errors | 18 | 24 |
| Match Duration | 2h 38m | — |
Djokovic’s higher conversion on break points and lower error count proved crucial in overcoming the Spaniard.
Quarterfinal Preview: Djokovic vs Bergs
Experience vs Momentum
This quarterfinal will be a clash of generations. Djokovic brings over two decades of tour experience, while Bergs is playing with youthful momentum and confidence.
Tactical Focus
- Djokovic will look to target Bergs’ backhand and force long rallies
- Bergs must stay aggressive, especially on second-serve returns
- Djokovic’s physical condition may play a key role
If Djokovic is still battling fatigue or leg issues, Bergs could have a real shot at the upset.
What’s Next for Djokovic?
Should Djokovic get past Bergs, he may face Jannik Sinner or Hubert Hurkacz in the semifinals — both known for power and consistency from the baseline.
A win in Shanghai would give Djokovic his 5th title at the event and further his lead in the ATP Race to Turin ahead of the Nitto ATP Finals.
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Match Schedule & Broadcast Info
- Quarterfinal Match: Friday, October 11
- Watch Live: TennisTV, Eurosport, and ESPN (Asia/Europe)
Final Thoughts
Novak Djokovic once again showed why he’s a tennis legend — surviving injury, heat, and pressure to keep his Shanghai campaign alive. But with the fearless and red-hot Zizou Bergs next, the challenge only gets tougher.
Can Djokovic outlast the heat — and the hunger of a rising star?
We’ll find out Friday only at Globalbet.
