Djokovic’s last-minute entry into the Shanghai Masters has left organizers scrambling, while Alcaraz’s samurai outfit in Japan stirs controversy.

Just moments ago, Djokovic’s “See you in Shanghai” announcement thrilled local fans, as the Serbian champion prepares to visit Shanghai again following last year’s appearance!

“Hello to my Chinese and Shanghai supporters! I am delighted to announce that I will once again return to Shanghai this year to participate in the Shanghai Rolex Masters!” The 24-time Grand Slam winner greeted Chinese fans through the tournament’s official channels, confirming his participation this year.

However, it is worth noting that this Serbian star, who has won the Shanghai title four times, suddenly declared his participation, disrupting the event organizers’ promotional plans. Reportedly, the Shanghai Masters posters had already been designed and installed at the venue, but now they must be redesigned and replaced.

Nevertheless, for the Shanghai Masters, having this “GOAT” attend will surely boost ticket sales to new heights. Currently, the ticketing system has even crashed temporarily due to overwhelming demand, with many fans rushing to secure tickets. Djokovic’s debut date at the Shanghai Masters has also become a trending topic on social media.

For Djokovic, this Shanghai Masters will be his first official tournament after his exit from the US Open, highlighting his focus on the Asian season. Interestingly, before the US Open, Djokovic had stated he would no longer compete in the two-week Masters events, citing that “there are 12 such two-week tournaments a year, which is too long, and he wants more time with his family.” Yet, he ultimately chose to play in Shanghai, demonstrating his special connection to this event and Chinese fans.

The Shanghai Masters will take place from October 1st to 12th at the Qizhong Tennis Center under the Jiushi Sports complex. This year’s lineup is star-studded, with total prize money exceeding $9 million, making it one of the highest-paying ATP Masters events.

Chinese fans have responded enthusiastically to Djokovic’s participation. On social media, many expressed their excitement with simple comments like “welcome” and “good,” reflecting their joy.

On the same day, world No.1 and Spanish tennis star Alcaraz sparked heated discussion on social media during the Tokyo tournament in Japan by dressing as a “Japanese samurai,” adding to the buzz of this autumn’s Asian tennis season.

Some fans bluntly commented, “We should respect other countries’ traditional cultures, but after watching ‘Return to the Team,’ ‘Unit 731,’ and the summer film ‘Nanjing Photo Studio,’ I really have no good feelings towards them!” This remark highlights the complex influence of historical memories on modern sports cultural exchanges.

However, others defended Alcaraz, saying, “Alcaraz isn’t Chinese; he’s a Spaniard who naturally explores every country he visits. He wore traditional Chinese clothing in China too. Some netizens are just too sensitive!”

Some fans are also hoping Alcaraz will participate in the Shanghai Masters after his Japan matches: “Finish your matches quickly and come to Shanghai, we have the Masters here.” This view reflects the majority of tennis fans who focus more on the sport itself than on political or historical controversies.

What do you think? Will you watch Djokovic’s matches? The Asian tennis season is just getting started—let’s get ready and enjoy it to the fullest!(Source: Tennis Home, Author: Lu Xiaotian)