Many of the top ranked players are out already but the Shanghai Masters quarter-finals feature some interesting match-ups still. A nice contrast of experience and rising talent comes on Thursday as four-time champion Novak Djokovic takes on Belgian star Zizou Bergs.
This quarter-final match marks the first career meeting between the two players.
Djokovic path to the quarter-finals has been anything but smooth. The 38-year-old is chasing a record-extending 41st ATP Masters 1000 title and has already secured a piece of history in Shanghai by becoming the oldest player to reach an ATP Masters 1000 quarter-final (38 years and four months).
However, the severe heat and humidity in Shanghai have taken a toll. In his previous match against Jaume Munar, Djokovic battled a leg injury, exhaustion and even vomited on court before fighting through to a three-set victory.
He should have the motivation though. With no Carlos Alcaraz or Jannik Sinner remaining in the draw, the path is open for Djokovic to claim a record-extending fifth Shanghai title.
Zizou Bergs, the World No. 44, is enjoying the best run of his career, reaching his maiden ATP Masters 1000 quarter-final. The 26-year-old Belgian has displayed impressive form, including wins over players like Casper Ruud and Francisco Cerundolo, and survived a marathon fourth-round match against Gabriel Diallo.
Predictions and Best Bets
Looking around at the best tennis odds among bookies, Djokovic is a big favorite at odds 1.25 (or -400) while Bergs give 4.10 (+310).
Zizou is in great form all of a sudden but does he have what he takes to challenge the Serb? He has yet to defeat a top-5 player in his career and he might not have the weapons needed here from the baseline. Novak might be fatigued but he usually finds a way and if he can get to his normal, high level, he should find a way to defeat Bergs.
Prediction: Djokovic in three sets.
