In a match that etched their names into tennis history, Novak Djokovic outlasted Marin Čilić 7-6(3), 6-4 on Friday at the ATP Shanghai Masters. The 38-year-old Serb, returning after a four-week break since the US Open, showed no signs of rust in advancing to the third round. Indeed, this encounter wasn't just another win for Djokovic; it shattered an all-time ATP record as the oldest pairing in a Masters 1000 event, combining for 75 years and 139 days. Čilić, at 36, put up a gritty fight, but Djokovic's precision in the tiebreak and a decisive break in the second set sealed the deal.
The victory extends Djokovic's commanding 20-2 head-to-head edge over the Croatian veteran—their first meeting since 2022. For Čilić, who needed a lucky loser spot to enter the draw, it was a valiant effort marked by booming serves and occasional flashes of his 2014 US Open form. However, errors crept in under pressure, allowing Djokovic to capitalize. The crowd at the Qizhong Forest Sports City Arena appreciated the spectacle, though some might wonder if these marquee clashes between aging stars signal a generational shift in the sport.
Now, Djokovic turns his attention to Ugo Humbert in the round of 32, a matchup that could test the world No. 4's endurance further. The 27-year-old Frenchman, seeded 13th, breezed past qualifier Li Tu 6-3, 6-4 earlier, showcasing his flat-hitting baseline game and improving serve. Humbert has troubled top players before, reaching the Miami semifinals this year, but faces a monumental challenge against Djokovic's 100% win rate in Shanghai third rounds. Moreover, Djokovic, chasing a record fifth title here, spoke post-match about drawing motivation from his family amid a season of highs and lows.
With Jannik Sinner lurking in his half of the draw, Djokovic's path remains treacherous. Yet, at his best, he remains the benchmark. One can't help but ponder if this Shanghai run will reignite his fire for the season's end.