Shanghai-Novak Djokovic launched his bid for a record-expanding fifth title at the Shanghai Masters with a Straight-Sets victory over Marin Cilic on Friday in the first game of the Serbs open.
The fourth placed Djokovic struggled to maintain a grip early in the second round match and had to sprinkle on his hands to combat the humidity before he ruled 7-6 (2), 6-4.
After breaking serve early in the second set, Djokovic had to fight two breakpoints in the last game before he sealed the victory with an AAS – his 10th of the game.
It was his first game since Carlos Alcaraz’s losing in the American Open Semi -Final.
“I had trouble finding my rhythm from the basic line,” said Djokovic. “I [lacked] Some matches – my last was open at the US – so I got a very tough opener against Marin, who when he feels the ball, is so dangerous and can beat everyone.
“He didn’t give me time to breathe, so I think I dug myself out of trouble with a good portion, which makes me clearly happy.”
Djokovic is then confronted with the German qualifying match Yannick Hanfmann, who defeated the American Frances Tiafoe 6-7 (9), 6-2, 6-1.
Sixth placed Ben Shelton, who had not played anymore since he had sustained a left shoulder injury at the US Open, was struck 6-2, 6-4 by David Goffin.
Goffin Brak Brake not long after the game was resumed after a short rain suspension.
Earlier in the week, Shelton said that, despite the five-week resignation, he still hoped to qualify for the ATP final in Turin, Italy from November 9.
Shelton is currently sixth in the points race for Turin, with eight reaching the final. But his loss Friday will place a dent in those ambitions.
The top-ranking players in Shanghai all received the first round bye’s. Fifth placed Taylor Fritz played later on Friday.
Jannik Sinner, who won the China Open -Final in Beijing on Wednesday, will play on Saturday. Top ranked Alcaraz, who defeated Fritz in the Japan Open Final, announced after his victory in Tokyo that he would not play in Shanghai due to small disorders.
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