Novak Djokovic becomes oldest ever semi-finalist in ATP 1000 Masters events

Novak Djokovic also holds the record for most Shanghai Masters titles.

Another chapter in ‘age is just a number’ for Novak Djokovic was added as he made the semi-finals at Shanghai Masters 2025, breaking his own record to set a new milestone.

The 24-time Grand Slam champion cruised past Belgium’s Zizou Bergs in the quarter-finals in straight sets, winning 6-3, 7-5.

With this victory, Djokovic became the oldest player to reach the semi-finals of an ATP Masters 1000 event. At 38 years and 133 days, his run in Shanghai surpasses his previous record, set earlier this year at the Miami Open, where he reached the final four at 37 years and 10 months.

Nevertheless, Djokovic’s journey to the semi-finals has been far from smooth. The Serbian has battled brutal heat and humidity throughout the tournament in Shanghai. The weather have already forced several players to retire due to exhaustion and cramps.

During his quarter-final match against the Belgian, Djokovic also appeared to be dealing with a left ankle issue. Yet, showcasing his classic fight, the Serbian adjusted his rhythm, and overpowered his younger opponent to secure his spot in the final four.

This marks the Serbian’s 11th appearance in the Shanghai Masters semi-finals—Djokovic has reached the last four stage in 10 out of 11 appearances in the tournament.

Also Read: Out of this World! Novak Djokovic pulls off impossible point at Shanghai Masters 2025 [Watch Video]

The only time he did not reach the semi-finals in Shanghai was in 2019, when Stefanos Tsitsipas defeated him in the quarter-finals. 

The win over Bergs also marks Djokovic’s 80th appearance in the semi-finals of an ATP Masters 1000 tournament, further extending his record in this category. He holds massive gap in the list as compared to Rafael Nadal (76) and Roger Federer (66) in this regard.

Earlier in the tournament, Djokovic also became the oldest player to reach the quarter-finals of an ATP Masters 1000 event, surpassing Federer’s record. 

Now, the 38-year-old is eyeing his fifth Shanghai Masters crown and a record-extending 41st ATP Masters 1000 title.

Djokovic is set to face Valentin Vacherot in the semi-finals on Saturday, October 11.

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