Novak Djokovic
World No. 1 Novak Djokovic has eased his way into the third round of the Shanghai Open, setting up a meeting with German qualifier Yannick Hanfmann. The Serbian legend, celebrated for his precision and unmatched mental strength, is once again showing why he remains one of the most formidable forces in tennis as he aims for another Masters 1000 crown.
Hanfmann, who has put together a strong run through qualifying, will have his hands full against the 24-time Grand Slam champion. Known for his heavy serve and aggressive baseline play, the German will need to bring his very best to challenge Djokovic’s exceptional returning ability — widely regarded as one of the finest the sport has ever seen.
On the other side of the draw, sixth seed Ben Shelton bowed out earlier than expected, falling 6-2, 6-4 to Belgium’s David Goffin. The 22-year-old American, still working his way back after a shoulder injury sustained during the US Open, never quite found his rhythm. He surrendered his serve twice in the opening set, allowing Goffin to dictate the pace of play.
Shelton fought harder in the second set, showing flashes of his trademark firepower, but an untimely unforced error in the ninth game handed Goffin the break he needed. The Belgian veteran, currently ranked No. 83 in the world, held his nerve to close out the win and move into the next round.
Goffin now turns his attention to Canada’s Gabriel Diallo, the 31st seed, who has quietly been gaining momentum throughout the tournament. Their upcoming clash promises to be an intriguing contrast of experience versus youthful energy.
In other tournament developments, Carlos Alcaraz announced his withdrawal earlier in the week, citing minor physical issues following his Japan Open triumph. The Spaniard’s absence leaves the door slightly more open for top seeds, particularly Novak Djokovic, who now stands as the overwhelming favorite to capture the Shanghai title.
With Alcaraz sidelined and Shelton out of contention, all eyes shift squarely to Djokovic, who looks poised to extend his dominance and add yet another milestone to an already historic career.