Novak Djokovic, the four-time Shanghai Masters champion, displayed his resilience and experience on Friday, overcoming a first-set loss to defeat Czech Jakub Mensik 6-7(4) 6-1 6-4 and reach the semi-finals. The match was a testament to Djokovic’s ability to adapt and elevate his game, particularly after a challenging first set against the 19-year-old Mensik.
The opening set saw Djokovic struggle to counter Mensik’s powerful serve, allowing his opponent to take the lead in the tiebreak. However, the 24-time Grand Slam champion showcased his trademark tenacity, finding his rhythm and breaking Mensik’s serve for a 5-4 advantage in the second set. Mensik, unfazed by the moment, fought back to level the score before clinching the tiebreak as Djokovic hit a forehand into the net.
Djokovic, demonstrating his veteran prowess, turned the tide in the second set. He capitalized on Mensik’s string of unforced errors, taking a 3-0 lead. The young Czech, competing in his first ATP Masters 1000 quarter-final, was unable to match Djokovic’s consistency and accuracy, particularly from his forehand, as the Serbian star leveled the match at a set apiece.
The deciding set was a display of Djokovic’s dominance. He won the first point with a brilliant forehand after a 33-shot rally, setting the tone for a dominant performance. Djokovic broke Mensik for a 3-2 lead, ultimately proving decisive despite a late-match knee issue.
This victory sets up an intriguing semi-final clash for Djokovic against world number seven, Taylor Fritz. Fritz, the American, secured his spot in the semis after a convincing 6-3 6-4 win over Belgian David Goffin. The other semi-final will see world number one Jannik Sinner take on Czech Tomas Machac.
Djokovic is aiming for a record-extending fifth Shanghai Masters title, a feat that would also mark his first ATP Masters 1000 title since his victory in Paris last year.
