Due to the absence of Carlos Alcaraz and the premature elimination of Jannik Sinner due to cramps at the Shanghai Masters 1000, almost everyone was convinced that Novak Djokovic would clinch his fifth title in China and the 41st Masters 1000 of his legendary career.
The former world number 1 – who had physical issues of various kinds also due to the extreme weather conditions that characterized the entire tournament – reached the semifinals with more difficulty than expected, before being defeated by the Monegasque revelation Valentin Vacherot when everything seemed ready for his access to the final.
The former world number 204 put in a perfect performance taking advantage of the fact that he had nothing to lose, instead the Serbian veteran was very far from his best version and also had to ask for the intervention of the physiotherapist during the match. When asked to provide an update on his physical condition in the press conference, the 24-time Grand Slam champion refused to answer, also expressing some nervousness.
Djokovic struggled
The 38-year-old from Belgrade has repeatedly admitted that his body no longer offers him the same guarantees as it once did and it is no coincidence that the number of his injuries has drastically increased in the last year and a half. Fans and insiders are curious to know what Djokovic will do between now and the end of the season, considering that he has only confirmed his presence in Athens for now.
Through his official X profile, top analyst José Moron praised Nole's ability to fight against adversity: "Djokovic definitely had a huge chance in Shanghai, but it wasn't an easy tournament for him. He hasn't played a single match in which he didn't have some discomfort and his body is showing the effects of over 20 years of career. Although he didn't manage to play his best tennis, he still reached the semifinals and never gave up. This aspect deserves to be highlighted."
Novak is not thinking about retirement and wants to continue playing at the highest level for a long time.