Shanghai
Djokovic Triumphs Under Pressure, Outsmarts Hanfmann in Shanghai
Serbian star sets up a thrilling fourth-round encounter against Munar at the ATP Masters 1000.
October 05, 2025
Hu Chengwei/Getty Images
Novak Djokovic makes his remarkable 11th appearance at the Rolex Shanghai Masters.
By Jerome Coombe
In a gripping showdown at the Rolex Shanghai Masters, Novak Djokovic battled through physical discomfort to overcome German qualifier Yannick Hanfmann, ending the clash with a scoreline of 4-6, 7-5, 6-3.
The four-time champion demonstrated resilience throughout his third-round match, often playing second fiddle to Hanfmann’s spirited performance. Yet, with the support of a fervent crowd, Djokovic found the drive to prevail after a grueling two hours and 45 minutes, marking one of his longest matches of 2025. He is now set to face Spain’s Jaume Munar in the next round.
What’s that sound? 📣 Oh just Novak with yet another win 😌
He defeats Hanfmann 4-6 7-5 6-3🔥@SH_RolexMasters | #RolexShanghaiMasters pic.twitter.com/ZeRYkcQh1i
— ATP Tour (@atptour) October 5, 2025
“Every player faces the same conditions, but it’s quite intense,” Djokovic remarked about the weather. “Dealing with over 80% humidity consistently is no easy task, especially when playing in the sun during the day.”
“I had to endure a tough match today. Yannick gave an exceptional performance right from the outset.”
After a strong first set from Hanfmann, who delivered four consecutive aces, Djokovic faced further trials in the second set, appearing visibly strained. In a surprising moment, he seemed to grapple with illness during a changeover, prompting him to shorten rallies to regain control.
Ranked No. 150 in the PIF ATP Rankings, Hanfmann sought to make history as the lowest-ranked player to defeat Djokovic at the ATP Masters 1000 level. Despite landing 33 winners, including 13 aces, he couldn’t withstand Djokovic’s resilience once the latter found his groove.
Djokovic’s pivotal point that leveled the match ignited a wave of excitement among the Shanghai fans. He secured an early break in the deciding set and surged to victory, extending his record to 2-0 against Hanfmann in their Lexus ATP Head2Head battles.
Catch Djokovic’s crucial set-point that turned the tide:
