Djokovic Battles Pain and Heat to Reach Shanghai Masters Quarterfinals

Shanghai, China – Novak Djokovic triumphed over discomfort and tough conditions on Tuesday, defeating Spain’s Jaume Munar 6-3, 5-7, 6-2 to advance to the quarterfinals of the Rolex Shanghai Masters.

The 24-time Grand Slam champion faced significant challenges, playing in intense heat and high humidity, which reached over 30 degrees Celsius (86 degrees Fahrenheit). Djokovic wrestled with an apparent left ankle injury throughout the match and required multiple medical timeouts for treatment.

“I’ve played in hot conditions before, but this was something else,” said Djokovic, visibly exhausted and drenched after the match, his voice raspy. “You just try to survive.” He had previously vomited during a second-round match against Yannick Hanfmann, demonstrating the toll this tournament’s conditions have taken on players.

In the first set, Djokovic found his rhythm early, breaking Munar’s serve and taking the set 6-3. However, midway through the match, he appeared to trip on his ankle, calling for a medical timeout which interrupted his momentum. Munar took advantage of Djokovic’s struggle, fighting hard to win the second set 7-5.

As Djokovic battled fatigue and discomfort, he was frequently checked by medical staff, receiving ice towels during changeovers to combat the oppressive heat. Yet, in the decisive third set, Djokovic found his stride again, breaking Munar’s serve early and completing the victory just shy of two hours and 41 minutes.

Djokovic’s win marks his 11th consecutive quarterfinal appearance at the Shanghai Masters, continuing his legacy at the tournament. Next, he will face Belgium’s Zizou Bergs, who defeated Tommy Paul in his last match.

Tennis officials have noted the extreme conditions this week, prompting discussions about implementing heat policies similar to those used in Grand Slam tournaments. Other players, including world No. 2 Jannik Sinner, have already withdrawn due to the harsh climate.