Djokovic honors tennis and enhances his legend in Shanghai

Diego Jiménez Rubio | 7 Oct 2025 | 16.00

Novak Djokovic beats Munar in Shanghai. Photo: gettyimages

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Incredible, but true. Novak Djokovic emerged unscathed from an epic duel lasting 2 hours and 41 minutes, in which he managed to defeat the always spirited Jaume Munar. The Spaniard was close to victory, but Djokovic overcame physical discomfort and extreme fatigue to win 6-3 5-7 6-3 to advance in the ATP Masters 1000 Shanghai 2025.

Anything can happen in Novak Djokovic's matches nowadays. His victory against any opponent is not guaranteed, as it used to be, but what is ensured is the spectacle and the maximum interest and excitement that his presence on the court generates. Jaume Munar appeared to be a tough obstacle to overcome in this ATP Masters 1000 Shanghai 2025, but no one could predict such an intriguing and convoluted match script as the one played between the Serbian and the Spaniard.

From the early stages of the first set, rapid baseline rallies were established, full of changes in direction, height, and speed. The foundation was set for an epic physical battle, challenged by Djokovic's break in the fourth game. Djokovic injured his left leg when reaching for a short ball from the Spaniard, resulting in Munar's lead on the scoreboard but also causing concerns for Djokovic.

- Djokovic overcame left leg pain in the first set

Medical attention after each exchange, cautious lateral movements, and a serious and restless expression became the Balkan player's demeanor for the remainder of the set. Yet, this did not result in a loss of tennis level; Djokovic's greatness, limitless resources, and experience in such situations allowed him to play highly efficient tennis, maintaining his lead, much to the astonishment of Munar who tried everything.

The Spaniard persisted in his effort to stay focused amid the match's context and managed to elevate his game in the second set. Novak battled against himself and his circumstance, visibly perturbed yet maintaining an offensive edge in his shots, particularly with his serve and forehand. The match turned into a power struggle, filled with shifts and versatile tennis from both sides to outplay each other. In the twelfth game, with Novak serving to force a tiebreak, Munar stepped up, became a defensive stronghold from the baseline, and secured the win to level the score.

- Munar unexpectedly gifted Djokovic an advantage in the beginning of the third set

The Serbian ended the set collapsed on the ground, devoid of energy, and everything signaled a third set that would be torturous for him. Even more so after the initial points, but at 40-15 in the opening game, Munar inexplicably missed a shot, granting a lifeline to a phoenix. Djokovic took the lead, but every point was a struggle, evident in his strained expressions that showed he was pushing his limits. Jaume saved a double break point and reconnected with the match.

Nevertheless, the momentum favored a natural survivor like Novak Djokovic, a man who honors tennis with his effort, leaving it all on the court to secure the victory when logic seemed to deny him any chance. In the quarterfinals of the ATP Masters 1000 Shanghai 2025, the Serbian continues to enhance his legendary status, striving for a glory for which he keeps proving worthy. His win against Jaume Munar will be a source of confidence but also extreme fatigue.

This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Djokovic honra al tenis y engrandece su leyenda en Shanghái

Novak Djokovic