Novak Djokovic, the 24-time Grand Slam champion, has advanced to the fourth round of the 2024 Shanghai Masters, keeping his hopes alive for a landmark 100th tour-level title. But his goals in China go beyond titles; Djokovic, a four-time Shanghai champion and six-time winner of the China Open in Beijing, revealed his deep affection for the country and expressed a desire to make China a consistent stop in his competitive calendar.
Following a decisive 6-1, 6-2 victory over Flavio Cobolli, Djokovic was asked whether this might be his last appearance in China—a notion he was quick to refute. “The love and energy I feel here push me forward,” he stated. At 37, with tennis’ intense schedule demanding more than ever, Djokovic has learned to be strategic, prioritizing only the biggest events and leaving room for the tournaments he feels most connected to. For him, China is one of those special places.
Djokovic plans to make an annual return to China, either for the Shanghai Masters or the China Open, highlighting his affinity for the region. The Serbian superstar’s achievements in China speak for themselves: four ATP 1000 Shanghai titles, six China Open victories, and a triumphant ATP Finals debut in Shanghai in 2008. His continued success underscores a chemistry with the Chinese crowd that goes beyond competition, an emotional connection that fuels his performance.
With a competitive landscape and age making each season more challenging, Djokovic’s approach centers around key events. This year alone, he has narrowed his focus, participating in just eight tournaments outside the four Grand Slams, including the Paris Olympics and Davis Cup. By carefully selecting his schedule, Djokovic hopes to extend his career, reserving energy for moments and places that inspire him.
As he looks toward 2025, Djokovic’s commitment to playing in China signals a strategic but sentimental choice. In a tennis career filled with high-stakes moments, the passion he finds in China may just be the fuel he needs for more history-making performances.
