Novak Djokovic’s dominant 6-3, 6-2 victory over Roman Safiullin at the Shanghai Masters was overshadowed by his frustration with the new 25-second automated serve clock rule. The 24-time Grand Slam champion expressed annoyance at the rule change being implemented midway through the season, making it difficult for players to adjust.

“I get it’s not up to you. But the rule change is unbelievable,” Djokovic said to umpire Nacho Forcadell during the match. “For four years we had a situation where we can’t get the towel. The ball kids are doing their best but they’re not trained. Without even notifying any players, they start this new rule. It’s incredible, honestly.”

Djokovic pointed out that players need consistency throughout the season, especially when dealing with rules that affect match flow and strategy. “We’ve got to know if we’re starting the season this way. We can’t change it midway in the season,” he added.

Despite his irritation, Djokovic continued his stellar form, extending his 2024 record to 35-8 and setting up a quarter-final clash against Jakub Mensik.

Reflecting on his performance, Djokovic said: “Both last night’s match and tonight have been, maybe, some of the best matches I have played in a while. These sensations I have on the tennis court are some of the reasons why I keep on playing and keep on competing.”

Djokovic in Shanghai, ranking, and results in 2024

Now the world no.4, Novak owns a 35-8 record in 2024. Djokovic is currently having a run in Shanghai where he defeated the world no.43 Alex Michelsen 7-6(3) 7-6(9)

, the world no.30 Flavio Cobolli 6-1 6-2 and the world no.61 Roman Safiullin 6-3 6-2.

Novak Djokovic will compete against the world no.65 Jakub Mensik in the quarter. In the past, they have never competed against each other until now in top competitions.

Djokovic clinched 1 title in 2024 in Paris. Novak was the finalist in Wimbledon.

The Serbian won 99 titles in his career: 52 on hard courts, 20 on clay courts, 19 on indoor courts and 8 on grass courts. (See the list of his titles)

Djokovic has scheduled to compete next in Paris (Rolex Paris Masters). He will start to play the tournament from the main draw that will commence on the 28th of October.

Novak Djokovic

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