Novak Djokovic is increasingly targeting his 100th tournament victory. The Grand Slam record champion from Serbia reached the semi-finals at the Masters in Shanghai – but had to overcome a serious test from the Czech youngster Jakub Mensik. Djokovic prevailed 6:7 (4:7), 6:1, 6:4 against the 19-year-old.
Djokovic had emphasized that the prospect of the anniversary title in the Chinese metropolis gave him “extra motivation”.
The Paris Olympic champion could thus move closer to Jimmy Connors and Roger Federer, who are ahead of the 37-year-old in the all-time best list. The American Connors has won 109 titles, the Swiss “Maestro” Federer has 103.
Djokovic will now face Taylor Fritz in the semifinals, who won safely against Alexander Zverev’s conqueror David Goffin. The second semi-final will be contested by world number one Jannik Sinner from Italy and Mensik’s compatriot Tomas Machac.
