Novak Djokovic Survives Scare Against Yannick Hanfmann in Shanghai Masters
Novak Djokovic admitted he was “hanging by a rope” before coming from behind to defeat Yannick Hanfmann 4-6, 7-5, 6-3 and reach the Shanghai Masters last 16.
“I was just outplayed by a better player for a set and a half - I was hanging by a rope to stay in the match...”
Novak Djokovic had a tough time battling past Yannick Hanfmann in the Shanghai Masters third round, coming from behind to win 4-6, 7-5, 6-3. The 38-year-old Serbian tennis star admitted he was “hanging by a rope” before managing to secure his spot in the last 16. Despite losing the first set, Djokovic dug deep and drew energy from the crowd to outlast his opponent.
The conditions were far from ideal, with temperatures and humidity levels taking a toll on the players. Djokovic described the conditions as “brutal,” saying it's particularly challenging for players competing during the day with the heat and sun beating down. He even struggled with dehydration, being pictured throwing water over his head and, in a striking image, vomiting during the match.
Djokovic's determination paid off as he fought back from Hanfmann's strong start. Hanfmann, ranked 150th in the world, had taken the first set convincingly but lost steam as the match progressed. Djokovic capitalized on Hanfmann's unforced errors in the 12th game of the second set to gain momentum and eventually took the match in three sets.
Novak Djokovic got off to a strong start, firing two aces to delight the crowd. However, his momentum was short-lived as Maximilian Hanfmann found his rhythm. The German broke Djokovic in the third game and held his serve consistently thereafter, taking the first set.
“I was just outplayed by a better player for a set and a half - I was hanging by a rope to stay in the match,” Djokovic admitted after the match. The second set was a grueling affair, with neither player able to gain a decisive advantage. However, a series of unforced errors from Hanfmann in the 12th game created an opportunity for Djokovic, which he capitalized on to level the match.
As the match transitioned into the third set, the humid conditions continued to take their toll. Despite the late hour of 9:00 pm, the temperature remained at 28°C, and Djokovic's persistence paid off. He broke Hanfmann in the fourth game as the German's precision began to wane. The crowd's energy was palpable, and Djokovic drew strength from their support.
What’s that sound? 📣 Oh just Novak with yet another win 😌
— ATP Tour (@atptour) October 5, 2025
He defeats Hanfmann 4-6 7-5 6-3🔥@SH_RolexMasters | #RolexShanghaiMasters pic.twitter.com/ZeRYkcQh1i
“I had to dig in really, really deep to come out from this match as a winner, and I think the energy and support of the crowd really got me out,” Djokovic said, acknowledging the role of the audience in his victory. With renewed momentum, Djokovic held his serve to seal the win after Hanfmann hit a crucial shot out, handing Djokovic the third set 6-3 [2].
What's Next for Djokovic
Next Opponent: Jaume Munar in the last 16
Record-extending Fifth Title: Djokovic aims to win his fifth Shanghai Masters title, having lost last year's final to Jannik Sinner.
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