Jannik Sinner started his Shanghai Masters title defense with a 6-3, 6-3 victory over Daniel Altmaier. After the duel, world no. 2 took a reflective moment to praise Novak Djokovic and his ongoing influence on the sport.
The Italian turned his game to the legend and hailed the Serb's everlasting legacy. The two rivals share the same half of the draw in Shanghai, and we could see their duel in the semi-final, a year after they fought in the title clash.
Sinner expressed admiration for the 24-time Major champion, emphasizing the privilege of competing in an era where the Serb still pushes the limits of excellence and reaches one Major semi-final after another.
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For the 24-year-old, sharing the court with the veteran feels like a privilege and a testament to the sport's richness. Jannik and Novak share one of tennis' most compelling rivalries.
Their encounters provide a mix of high-level intensity and mutual respect regardless the scoreboard. Sinner credited Djokovic's presence for elevating tennis, inspiring a new generation while chasing history.
From their gripping ATP Finals, Masters 1000 and Major encounters, the two have developed a dynamic built on constant evolution. Despite suffering five straight losses to the four-time Major winner, Novak is eager to challenge Jannik again, if possible already in Shanghai.
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The Serb provided his 40th Shanghai Masters victory with a hard-fought 7-6, 6-4 triumph over Marin Cilic in the oldest match in Masters 1000 history. Djokovic is eager to chase a deep run and challenge Sinner after falling to him at Roland Garros and Wimbledon.
For Jannik, Novak's presence on the big stage at 38 serves as a benchmark and an inspiration for him and entire younger generation. As they wish to meet in the semi-final, the two champions continue to represent different stages of greatness.
For the Serb, it's about enduring mastery and a chance to challenge much younger rivals on the biggest stages. For the Italian, it's abut rising brilliance and more notable trophies in his growing rivalry with Carlos Alcaraz.
Jannik's gratitude reflects a torch-passing narrative as fans await a potential semi-final clash that could blend legacy and innovation.
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"It's great to be in the same tournament with Novak. It's a great honor for me to compete while he continues his career, and it's fantastic for our sport that he remains in the game," Jannik Sinner said.
