Even in defeat, Novak Djokovic found himself rewriting tennis history in Shanghai. The 38-year-old ended his run in the semi-final, failing to chase his fifth title at one of his most favorite events.
However, he achieved a milestone that speaks louder than any trophy. The everlasting champion collected his 80th Masters 1000 semi-final, becoming the first player to reach that number and leaving his closest rival, Rafael Nadal, on 76.
To gather 80 Masters 1000 entries, one has to play them for nine years. Now imagine what it takes to advance to the last four that many times! Novak has lived at the very heart of the sport for two decades, turning consistency into an art form.
ADVERTISEMENT
Djokovic's latest record stands asa testament to his endurance discipline and the relentless pursuit of excellence. His first Masters 1000 semi-final came in Indian Wells 18 and a half years ago.
Novak became one of the most consistent players of that series alongisde Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer. Between 2011 and 2023, the Serb has ruled the elite ATP events like no one behind him.
The Belgrade native stands on 40 titles, 60 finals and 80 semi-finals, the numbers it will be hard to duplicate in the future, even for Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner.
ADVERTISEMENT
Two decades after his first season on the ATP Tour, Djokovic continues to show the same hunger that defined his rise to global greatness. Novak endured brutal conditions in Shanghai and defeated four rivals to enter the last four and achieve a milestone.
However, he suffered a 6-3, 6-4 defeat to world no. 204 Valentin Vacherot, struggling with a left hip injury and performing below his best. However, the veteran took nothing away from the rival's victory, dismissing injury talks and showing his greatness in defeat.
Shanghai becomes another chapter in the story of a champion who never stops setting new standards, even after achieving everything our sport has to offer.
