Photo via Yahoo Sports

Novak Djokovic handed brutal draw in Shanghai with Carlos Alcaraz’s route to the final also confirmed

Novak Djokovic faces a grueling path to defend his Shanghai Masters title, with a draw that includes potential clashes against former champions and top-ranked opponents. The 24-time Grand Slam winner, a four-time Shanghai champion last crowned in 2018, begins his campaign with a second-round bye before potentially facing Hubert Hurkacz, followed by Lorenzo Musetti in the third round.

His half of the draw also features Alexander Zverev, Ben Shelton, and Frances Tiafoe, with Carlos Alcaraz projected as his likely final opponent after a strong run through the tournament. Meanwhile, Alcaraz, the second seed, enters the tournament as the favorite to win his first Shanghai Masters title, though he’ll need to navigate threats like Felix Auger-Aliassime, Daniil Medvedev, and defending champion Valentin Vacherot.

His path could start with Juan Manuel Cerundolo, who famously upset Jannik Sinner at Roland Garros earlier this year, before a potential quarterfinal showdown with Ignacio Buse. Djokovic’s participation remains uncertain, as he has expressed doubt about competing in Shanghai while prioritizing qualification for the ATP Finals, though he confirmed plans to play at Paris Bercy regardless.

Up nextTennis· 2h ago

On brink of defeat, Iga Swiatek launches epic comeback to get past Donna Vekic at China Open