Shanghai shock: Djokovic, Federer ousted

Shanghai, October 11

Greece’s Stefanos Tsitsipas battled back from a set down to defeat top seed Novak Djokovic 3-6 7-5 6-3 in the Shanghai Masters quarter-finals for his first victory over a reigning world No. 1.

The 21-year-old came into the match having sealed his place in next month’s season-ending ATP Finals and celebrated with his second career win over Djokovic in three meetings. 

Tsitsipas has now recorded victories over all of tennis’s so called ‘Big Three’ this year, having beaten Roger Federer at the Australian Open and Rafa Nadal in Madrid. Tsitsipas next faces Daniil Medvedev, who overcame Italy’s Fabio Fognini 6-3 7-6(4). The Russian third seed’s victory ensured Tsitsipas became the sixth player to qualify for next month’s ATP Finals. 

Djokovic, Nadal, Federer, Medvedev and Dominic Thiem have also booked their places in the Finals, with two spots still up for grabs for the tournament in London.

Zverev in semis

Roger Federer was given a point penalty as he followed Novak Djokovic out of the Shanghai Masters quarter-finals in a bad-tempered defeat to Alexander Zverev. 

The 22-year-old German won 6-3, 6-7 (7/9), 6-3 as the Swiss legend was penalised after twice hitting the ball out of the court in anger and rowing with the umpire. 

In the semifinals, Zverev faces Matteo Berrettini who beat Dominic Thiem 7-6(8) 6-4. — Reuters