Shanghai, October 9 - Former World No.1 Novak Djokovic is now just two wins away from capturing his first ATP hard-court title since 2023, after defeating Belgium's Zizou Bergs 6 - 3, 7 - 5 at the 2025 Rolex Shanghai Masters on Thursday.

With the victory, the 38-year-old Serbian advanced to his 80th career ATP Masters 1000 semifinal, setting yet another record as the oldest semifinalist in Masters 1000 history. Djokovic will next face the Monegasque qualifier Valentin Vacherot, who stunned 10th seed Holger Rune in three sets.

Djokovic Battles Through Fatigue and Heat

The four-time Shanghai champion had to work hard in humid conditions, holding off a late surge from Bergs in a tight second set. Despite visibly struggling with energy levels and a left-foot issue, Djokovic showed his trademark resilience to close out the match after one hour and 50 minutes.

"I've been struggling quite a bit with energy levels," the Serbian admitted. "But every time i feel down, the crowd lifts me up. I really love playing in China, their supports gives me wind in my sails."

Djokovic's consistency under pressure was on display once again as he saved four of the five break points, according to Infosys ATP Stats, improving to 27 - 0 this season when winning the first set.

Bergs' Breakthrough Season Ends With a Fight

Zizou Bergs, 26, has enjoyed a breakthrough season, reaching a career high ranking of No.44 and two ATP Tour-level tournaments for the first time in his career. In Shanghai, he scored upset wins over Francisco Cerundolo and Gabriel Diallo to reach his first Masters 1000 quarterfinal.

The Belgian's powerful baseline game troubled Djokovic late in the match. He broke back at 4 - 5 in the second set before the Serbian regained the control with a lung-busting rally to earn another break but in the end the Serbian finally sealed victory on his third match point after Bergs' forehand found the net.

"He's got a lot of firepower," Djokovic said of Bergs. "At times, I just tried to play an extra ball and make him miss. i should have closed it out earlier, but credit to him, he made me work for it."

Eyeing The Record of 41st Masters 1000 Title

With top seeds Jannik Sinner and Alexander Zverev already out, Djokovic remains the highest ranked player left in the men's draw. His next opponent, Valentin Vacherot (ranked No. 204), has become Monaco's first ever Masters 1000 semifinalist after rallying past Rune 2 - 6, 7 - 6(4), 6 - 4.

Djokovic now chases his record-extending 41st ATP Masters 1000 title and his first Masters crown since Paris 2023. A win in Shanghai would also mark his fifth title at the tournament and would reaffirm his dominance on hard courts despite nearing his 40s.

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