Novak Djokovic Becomes Oldest Semi-Finalist in ATP Masters 1000 History

Novak Djokovic continues to defy time and expectations. The 24-time Grand Slam champion reached the semi-finals of the 2025 Shanghai Masters, setting yet another milestone by becoming the oldest player ever to reach the final four of an ATP Masters 1000 event.

Djokovic, now 38 years and 133 days old, eased past Belgium’s Zizou Bergs in straight sets, 6-3, 7-5, in the quarter-finals. With this win, he broke his own record—previously set earlier this year at the Miami Open, where he made the semis at 37 years and 10 months.

But Djokovic's path in Shanghai hasn't been without its challenges. The tournament has been plagued by extreme heat and humidity, conditions that have already forced several players to retire due to exhaustion and cramping. Despite the brutal weather, the Serbian has shown his trademark resilience, powering through each round with remarkable focus and fitness.

Age may just be a number—but for Djokovic, it's also becoming a record he keeps rewriting.

During his quarter-final clash against the Belgian, Djokovic appeared to be struggling with a left ankle issue. However, in true Djokovic fashion, he adapted his game, found his rhythm, and ultimately overpowered his younger opponent to book his place in the semi-finals.

This will be Djokovic’s 11th appearance in the Shanghai Masters semi-finals—an incredible record, having made it to the final four in 10 of his 11 outings at the tournament.

The only time he didn’t make it to the semi-finals in Shanghai was in 2019, when Stefanos Tsitsipas beat him in the quarter-finals.

His recent win over Bergs also marks his 80th career appearance in the semi-finals of an ATP Masters 1000 tournament — extending his record in this category. Djokovic now holds a significant lead over Rafael Nadal (76) and Roger Federer (66) on the all-time list.

Earlier in the tournament, Novak Djokovic made history by becoming the oldest player to reach the quarter-finals of an ATP Masters 1000 event, breaking Roger Federer's previous record.

Now 38, Djokovic is chasing his fifth Shanghai Masters title and looking to extend his record with a 41st ATP Masters 1000 crown.

He’s set to face Valentin Vacherot in the semi-finals on Saturday, October 11.

Cover Credits - ATP Tour