Djokovic equals Nadal’s hard-to-break record at age 38

Novak Djokovic is currently competing in the 2025 ATP 1000 Shanghai Masters and has a chance to advance further as Jannik Sinner, Alexander Zverev, and Taylor Fritz have all been eliminated.

Novak Djokovic recently secured his place in the round of 16 at the 2025 ATP 1000 Shanghai Masters after coming from behind to defeat Yannick Hanfmann in a match held on the evening of October 5th, Vietnam time.

This achievement marks Nole’s 112th appearance in the round of 16 at Masters 1000 events — a record that ties his longtime rival Rafael Nadal. This milestone highlights the extraordinary endurance and consistency of the Grand Slam record holder after more than two decades at the top level.

Djokovic first reached the round of 16 in the ATP 1000 series 18 years ago at the Paris Masters. Since then, he has consistently remained at the forefront, winning a total of 40 Masters 1000 titles and holding nearly all records at this level. In the 2025 season, despite being in the later stage of his career, the Serbian player has maintained impressive form, reaching all 4 Grand Slam semifinals, the final of the ATP 1000 Miami Open, and winning the ATP 250 Geneva Open.

This year in Shanghai, Djokovic’s path to the round of 16 was far from easy. Nole had to endure two tough matches against Marin Cilic and Yannick Hanfmann under very challenging conditions. With Jannik Sinner, Alexander Zverev, and Taylor Fritz already out, and Carlos Alcaraz withdrawing early, the 38-year-old stands a good chance to advance further and potentially claim his fifth Shanghai Masters title.

Djokovic’s opponent in the round of 16 at this penultimate ATP 1000 event of the year is Jaume Munar — a Spanish player who has made remarkable progress on hard courts during the 2025 season. The match between Djokovic and Munar is scheduled for the late afternoon of October 7th.

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