In a match that tested the limits of endurance for two tennis veterans, Novak Djokovic outlasted Marin Cilić 7-6(2), 6-4 on Friday at the Rolex Shanghai Masters. The Serb, seeded fourth, advanced to the third round with a performance that wasn't his most fluid but certainly effective. Djokovic, who hasn't played a non-Grand Slam event since May, seemed a bit rusty early on, struggling through a tight first set where Cilić's big serve kept him in contention.
However, Djokovic found his rhythm when it mattered. In the tiebreak, he dominated with precise returns, forcing errors from the Croatian. The second set flowed more smoothly for the world No. 2, as he broke Cilić's serve once and held firm under pressure. This victory marks Djokovic's 20th win at Shanghai, inching him closer to a record-extending fifth title here. At 38, he's still chasing that elusive 25th Grand Slam, having reached semifinals at all four majors this year despite injuries and tough draws.
Cilić, 36 and unseeded, put up a valiant fight after upsetting qualifier Nikoloz Basilashvili in the opener. His powerful groundstrokes troubled Djokovic at times, echoing their long rivalry—Djokovic now leads 18-3 head-to-head. Yet, the Croat's movement looked a touch labored, a reminder of his own battles with form since returning from injury. Indeed, it was a matchup of eras, two players who've defined the tour for over a decade.
Moreover, Djokovic admitted post-match that he had to "fire up all engines" to shake off the cobwebs. The crowd at Stadium Court appreciated the drama, cheering both as symbols of tennis longevity. However, with younger stars like Jannik Sinner looming, Djokovic's path won't get easier.
As the Shanghai draw unfolds, one wonders how much gas Djokovic has left in the tank for the long haul ahead.