Novak Djokovic was delighted to come through a tough test to open his Shanghai Masters campaign.
After a five-year absence, the former World number has returned to China, now as a 24-time Grand Slam champion.
This is Djokovic’s first tournament since representing his native Serbia at the Davis Cup group stages in September. However, this is Djokovic’s first solo event since his third round exit from the US Open.
The Chinese fans have been longing to see Djokovic compete on their shores again, and they have now got their wish and he did not disappoint them when he took on America’s Alex Michelsen.
What did Novak Djokovic say about Alex Michelsen after their Shanghai Masters match?
Novak Djokovic opened his Shanghai Masters campaign by taking on Michelsen for the first time in his career.
The big-serving American, 20, is one of tennis’ brightest and most exciting young players and possesses one of the biggest serves and groudstrokes on the ATP Tour.
This is something Djokovic quickly discovered as he was forced into some excellent defensive skills and even had to save two set points in the second set tiebreak to win a record 35th match in Shanghai.
The 37-year-old claimed just his second win since the US Open and he welcomed the challenge from Michelsen which helped him to shake off any rust or lack of match sharpness.
“It was the first matchup against Alex, I’ve watched him play but never faced him on the court and I also haven’t played in a while so it took me a bit of time to get the rust off and get things going,” Djokovic said during his on-court interview.
“He started terrifically, with big serves, quite aggressive style of tennis. For a big guy he moves well, comes in, and he is not afraid to step it up and take it to his opponent.
“It was a very close encounter. I thought it was quite a high level of tennis in both sets. I’m just glad to keep my nerves and calm when it mattered in the second set tiebreak. I’m glad to really be challenged by a young player and I’m looking forward to the next one.”
Novak Djokovic’s latest victory give him ATP Finals qualification boost
In an attacking matchup, Djokovic struck 34 winners in his latest win, while Michelsen hit 30 of his own.
Defeating the American marked Djokovic’s 33rd win of the season, and it has improved his chances of qualifying for the ATP Finals in November.
The seven-time winner of the season-ending championships has overtaken Alex de Minaur to move into eighth place in the ‘Race to Turin’ standings, the final qualifying spot for the tournament.
De Minaur has not played since reaching the US Open quarter-finals and he is currently struggling with injury, which could further boost Djokovic’s chances of defending his ATP Finals crown.
Djokovic is going for a fifth Shanghai Masters title and should be reach the ATP Finals, he will compete for a record eighth title a the event.
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