In a match that echoed their storied rivalry, Novak Djokovic steadied his game to defeat Marin Čilić 7-6(2), 6-4 on Friday at the ATP Shanghai Masters. The Serb, returning after a four-week break since his US Open semifinal exit, showed flashes of his vintage form but wasn't exactly dominant. Čilić, the 2014 US Open champion making a rare appearance at 36, pushed hard in the first set, forcing a tiebreak where Djokovic's superior returns sealed it. Indeed, the second set saw more of the same tension, with Djokovic breaking serve at 4-4 to close out the victory in straight sets.
This win marks Djokovic's first victory since New York, and it comes at a pivotal moment in his 2025 season. He's chasing a record-extending fifth title here in Shanghai, a tournament he's won in 2013, 2015, 2018, and 2019. Yet, the path ahead looks tricky, especially with World No. 2 Jannik Sinner lurking in his half of the draw—a potential semifinal clash that could test the 38-year-old's endurance. Djokovic arrived in China upbeat, drawing motivation from family, but his schedule remains selective as he eyes the ATP Finals.
Next up for Djokovic is Frenchman Ugo Humbert in the third round, a matchup that adds intrigue. Humbert, seeded 14th, upset Taylor Fritz earlier this week with a gritty 6-4, 7-6(5) win, showcasing his aggressive baseline play and improving serve. The 27-year-old has been on a roll, reaching finals in recent months, and he's never faced Djokovic before. However, Djokovic holds a psychological edge, having navigated similar underdog threats throughout his career. Still, Humbert's lefty spin could disrupt the rhythm if Djokovic's movement isn't sharp.
Moreover, the Shanghai field remains stacked, with Carlos Alcaraz in the opposite half, spared an early Djokovic meeting. As the tournament progresses into its weekend phase, expect more upsets—local hero Shang Juncheng already advanced, thrilling the home crowd. Djokovic's straight-sets progress feels efficient, but one wonders if the rust is fully shaken off.
With the Masters 1000 swing intensifying, how far can Djokovic push before the year winds down?