The defending Shanghai champion, Novak Djoković, is still undefeated on the Asian tour. After lifting a 500 Series trophy in Tokyo last week, Novak continued his win streak on Shanghai Masters by beating a talented Canadian Denis Shapovalov in straight sets (6–3, 6–3).
The first set was evenly matched for the most part, as both players served really well and denied each other a chance for an easy break. However, in the eighth game of the opening set, Shapovalov allowed Djoković a single breakpoint, which was enough for the Serb to take a two-game lead and secure the first set.
The second set was very similar to the first, as Shapovalov won his first two service games. However, young Canadian’s game started to crumble as he began making consecutive unforced errors.
Djoković easily broke his opponent and quickly came to three straight match points after a stunning forehand passing shot. Shapovalov saved the first match point, but his forehand was long on the next play, and Djoković could start celebrating.
In the third round tomorrow, Novak will play 16th seed John Isner, who he has beaten nine times in their 11 encounters. The last time these two met was at the ATP Finals in London last year, when Djoković won in straight sets.
The world no. 1 is looking to defend the title in Shanghai and extend his lead on the ATP list over Rafael Nadal, who withdrew from the tournament due to an injury.
