Novak Djokovic failed in his quest for a 100th tour-level title as he lost the Shanghai Masters final to Jannik Sinner.
Sinner is the youngest Shanghai Masters champion, with the world number one beating the Serbian 7-6(7-4), 6-3.
The straight-sets victory at the Shanghai Masters represents a 65th win of the season for Sinner, a personal best for the Italian.
Moreover, he has seven tour-level titles to his name in 2024, while he has now levelled his head-to-head record with Djokovic to 4-4.
It was another commanding display from Sinner, who dropped just one set on his way to the Shanghai Masters trophy.
Novak Djokovic has message for Shanghai Masters champion Jannik Sinner
His dominance in 2024 has been ruthless, with the Italian’s titles including the Australian Open and US Open.
Those efforts have not gone unnoticed by Djokovic, who said on Sky Sports Tennis after the Shanghai Masters final: “It’s been a pleasure to be here in Shanghai once again.
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“I’ve had lots of success on Chinese soil in my career and I haven’t played in China for five years so I missed it and I’m really glad that I came this year.
“I think I played some really good tennis. Obviously congratulations to Jannik, he was just too good today, too strong, too fast. Well done for having an incredible year, you deserve this.”
Novak Djokovic falls short against Jannik Sinner at Shanghai Masters
Djokovic will be disappointed in the immediate aftermath of his Shanghai Masters loss, particularly given his aim of securing a century of titles.
But he can certainly hold his head high given the quality of his opponent, with Sinner not giving much away on the court.
He grabbed his latest victory in one hour and 37 minutes, enjoying a more straightforward second set after being pushed all the way in the first.
Aged 23, Sinner will be eager to add to his impressive honours list in the months and years to come, although Djokovic will also have grand plans for more silverware.
His fellow legend Roger Federer watched the Shanghai Masters final, with the Swiss icon treated to a fantastic battle between Sinner and Djokovic.
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