Jannik Sinner claimed his fourth ATP Masters 1000 crown after defeating Serbian great Novak Djokovic with a high-class showing in Shanghai on Sunday.
The top-seeded Italian recorded a 7-6 (4), 6-3 victory over the four-time former champion Djokovic in one hour and 37 minutes.
Both players served exceptionally well throughout the first set, denying each other any break point opportunities. In the tiebreak, Novak made a few unforced errors that cost him, and he lost the set after a 56-minute contest.
Novak’s concentration dropped significantly in the second set, he could not find his rhythm. The Italian continued to serve brilliantly, playing with precision and aggression, which earned him a break in the fourth game. He held the advantage until the end, securing a well-deserved win.
“I’ve had lots of success at Chinese tournaments in the past and hadn’t played in China for five years, so I’ve missed it and I’m really glad that I came this year,” said Djokovic at the trophy ceremony. “I think I played some really good tennis, but congratulations to Jannik. He was just too good today. Too strong, too fast, well done. You’re having an incredible year. You deserve this.”
Match statistics: aces (4-8), double faults (0-0), winners (12-22), unforced errors (23-23), total points won (60-65).
With the runner-up finish at the Rolex Shanghai Masters, Novak stays on course for ATP Finals qualification. He is currently in sixth place in the Race to Turin with 3,910 points.
Djokovic will take part in the upcoming Six Kings Slam event in Riyadh. He will face the winner of the match between Jannik Sinner and Daniil Medvedev on October 17.
Photo: Profimedia
