Novak Djokovic vs Stefanos Tsitsipas - Shanghai Masters - Preview and Prediction

Shanghai sets up a sizzling showdown as World number 1, Novak Djokovic locks horns with the number 7, Stefanos Tsitsipas in the quarterfinals today. 

After retiring midway in the fourth round of the US Open against Stan Wawrinka, the Serb has shown immense physical prowess and mental strength with his tremendous comeback. 

Nole is on a seven-match winning streak, and has won 14 sets in a row. After winning the Japan Open title for the first time, he has not let his guard down. 

Djokovic swept past the dangerous Denis Shapovalov 6-3 6-3. The big-serving John Isner who could have threatened Novak, could hit just nine aces against the Serb. 

Flawless tennis was on display as the 16-time Grand Slam champion delivered a staggering winning percentage of 89 and 100 on his first serve and second serve. 

On the other hand, the Greek player Tsitsipas has continued his great form after the runner-up finish in the China Open where he lost to Dominic Thiem in three sets. 

The sixth seed has defeated two tough opponents in the previous couple of rounds. After losing to his nemesis, Felix Auger Aliassime, five times in a row (including the juniors), Tsitsipas turned the tide defeating him in two tense tie-breakers. 

He let out a roar after clinching the match and his emotions revealed how important the match was to him. 

The 21-year old showed impressive resilience edging past 22-year old Hubert Hurkacz 7-5 3-6 7-6(5). He will have his task cut-out against Novak though.  

He can play everything anywhere. I will be ready for my chances, be aggressive, be there on the court. My concentration has to be double than it was today and not give free points.", said Tsitsipas about his game plan against Djokovic. 

Key Insights 

• The Head to head record is 1-1 between Djokovic and Tsitsipas and both of them would be looking to go out for a win to claim the bragging rights
• If Tsitsipas beats Djokovic today, he will become the sixth player to qualify for the year-end ATP Finals
• In 2019, Tsitsipas has already beaten two members of the big 3- Federer and Nadal
• Djokovic is also closely behind Nadal in the ATP race to London, a title win in Shanghai would take him just 460 points behind Nadal
  
  “There is always something to work on. That’s the beauty of sport and life in general, you can always improve, But I am very happy with the way I’m playing, with the way I’m feeling on the court.” , said Djokovic, reflecting a positive spirit ahead of the crucial encounter.

Whatever might be the outcome, tennis will be the winner as fans across the world will be spell-bound by the shot-making of both the players. 

Prediction - Stefanos Tsitsipas to win in three sets 

Cover Image Credits - Getty Images