SHANGHAI, China – Novak Djokovic continues to defy Father Time, breaking his own record for the oldest singles semifinalist in the history of the ATP Masters 1000 tournaments. At 38 years and 5 months old (specifically, 38 years and 140 days, according to supplementary records), the Serbian legend secured his spot in the semifinals of the Rolex Shanghai Masters on Thursday, October 9, 2025.

Djokovic, currently ranked World No. 5 (though some sources indicate he is World No. 1 or No. 4 seed in this tournament), achieved the milestone by defeating a spirited Zizou Bergs (World No. 44, from Belgium) in a battling quarterfinal match, 6-3, 7-5. The victory not only propels him closer to a record-extending fifth Shanghai title but also increases his all-time record for Masters 1000 single semifinal appearances to an astonishing 80. This tally further separates him from his closest rivals, including Rafael Nadal (76) and the retired Roger Federer (66).

A Fight Against Time and a Rising Star 

The straight-sets scoreline against the unseeded Bergs belied the intensity of the one-hour and 52-minute contest, which took place in challenging, stifling conditions. The Belgian, who was aiming for his maiden Masters 1000 semifinal, tested the four-time Shanghai champion, registering more winners and even saving five set points in the opening set. The second set saw Djokovic break Bergs at 5-4, only to be broken right back, before he finally sealed the victory on his third match point, a testament to his enduring competitive fire.

This new record surpasses the previous mark of 37 years and 10 months that Djokovic himself set at the Miami Open earlier this year. The Masters 1000 events are the tier immediately below the four Grand Slams, with nine tournaments held annually.

Chasing Another Record 

The semi-final stage will see Djokovic face the surprise package of the tournament, Monegasque qualifier Valentin Vacherot (World No. 204). Vacherot, who entered the qualifying draw as an alternate, pulled off a stunning upset by rallying to defeat the 10th seed Holger Rune 2-6, 7-6(4), 6-4, becoming one of the lowest-ranked Masters 1000 semifinalists in history.

Should Djokovic go all the way and lift the trophy this weekend, he would also eclipse the oldest Masters 1000 singles champion record, currently held by Roger Federer, who was 37 years and 7 months when he won the Miami Open in 2019. Djokovic has already broken the Masters 1000 records for most titles (40), most final appearances (60), and, now, most semifinal appearances (80).

For Novak Djokovic, every match won at this stage of his career seems to come with a piece of history, cementing his legacy as one of the greatest—and most enduring—players to ever grace the sport.

[ⓒ Global Economic Times. 무단전재-재배포 금지]