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Why Novak Djokovic will be cheering on Alexander Zverev when he plays Alex de Minaur in Shanghai

Novak Djokovic’s hopes of securing a spot at the ATP Finals in Turin hinge on an unexpected quarter-final clash in Shanghai, where Alexander Zverev faces Alex de Minaur. The German, already a tournament favorite, could clear a major hurdle by defeating the Australian, who currently holds the ninth and final qualifying spot with a 40-point lead over Djokovic.

A Zverev victory would keep de Minaur from extending his advantage further, as the Aussie could gain up to 240 points for a semifinal appearance or 840 for the title. Djokovic, who lost early in Shanghai to Hubert Hurkacz, has also expressed interest in returning to the ATP Finals if he qualifies, though his path remains uncertain.

Meanwhile, Rafael Jodar’s potential quarter-final win over Casper Ruud adds another variable, as the 20-year-old Spaniard could also leapfrog Djokovic in the rankings. With 1,000 points still up for grabs at the Paris Masters, Djokovic’s chances depend on Zverev’s success—and a bit of luck from his rivals’ results.

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