Shanghai Masters: Djokovic vs Sinner in Battle for ATP Glory

Shanghai Masters final on Sunday will see world number four Novak Djokovic face Jannik Sinner as he aims for his 100th ATP title. Djokovic advanced to the final after overcoming hip issues to defeat the USA’s Taylor Fritz 6-4, 7-6 (8-6). The match began smoothly for Djokovic, who dominated the first set with some of his best tennis this season. However, the 24-time Grand Slam champion slowed down in the second set as he dealt with a hip problem.

Despite Fritz taking a 3-2 lead after saving three break points in the second set, Djokovic fought back even calling a medical timeout with Fritz leading 6-5. The American had a chance in the tie-break, holding a 6-5 advantage, but Djokovic won the next two points and closed out the match. Reflecting on his performance, Djokovic said, “I had some issues on the court – physically – but managed to overcome it.”

Meanwhile, Jannik Sinner ranked number four in the world, made history by becoming the first Italian to reach the final in Shanghai. The 23-year-old defeated Czech 30th seed Tomas Machac 6-4, 7-5 playing with impressive control and committing just nine unforced errors. With this victory, Sinner secured his status as the year-end world number one, finishing the year with 64 wins.

Sinner expressed his excitement, saying, “It’s amazing. It’s something you dream of when you’re a kid.” This final will mark the eighth meeting between Djokovic and Sinner, with Djokovic having won four of their previous seven encounters. The final promises to be an exciting clash as Djokovic seeks his 100th title while Sinner aims to cap off his breakthrough season as the year-end number one.