Djokovic reaches the semifinals of the 2025 Shanghai Masters, achieving an unprecedented milestone in history

With Carlos Alcaraz absent from the tournament and Jannik Sinner withdrawing in the third round due to cramps, Djokovic is regarded as the leading contender for his 41st Masters 1000 title—a record few players can match. The remaining quarterfinal matches are Daniil Medvedev versus Alex De Minaur and Arthur Rinderknech against Felix Auger-Aliassime.

"Honestly, I had to summon all my strength just to stay on the court," Djokovic said after the match when asked about his physical condition. "This was my first encounter with Bergs. He’s a fantastic guy with a very powerful game. Many times I was simply trying to return one more ball to force him into making mistakes. The playing conditions in recent weeks have been extremely challenging for all of us."

In the opening games, Bergs started confidently and showed no signs of nerves, leveling the score at 2-2 against Djokovic. However, the world number one appeared to move heavily, frequently bending over between points due to exhaustion in the humid and oppressive weather.

Djokovic—who had received treatment on his left Achilles tendon and calf during the third round—continued to fight strongly. He broke his opponent’s serve in the sixth game to take a 4-2 lead, then successfully saved three break points in the next game. Although Bergs hit three aces to stay in the rally, Djokovic held firm and closed the first set 6-3.

The second set became more tightly contested. Djokovic created a decisive moment in the ninth game by breaking serve to lead 5-4, but Bergs quickly broke back, producing exciting rallies that thrilled the spectators.

However, the experience of the 24-time Grand Slam champion showed at the crucial moment: he earned another break and finished the match on his second serve chance, securing a spot in the Shanghai Masters semifinals for the 10th time in his career—highlighting the exceptional skill and endurance of the Serbian legend.