Shanghai, Oct 9 (NationPress) - Novak Djokovic demonstrated his remarkable resilience and seasoned experience once again as he overcame Belgium's Zizou Bergs with a score of 6-3, 6-4 on Thursday, securing a place in the semi-finals of the 2025 Shanghai Masters.

Even though he wasn't at his peak physical condition, the 38-year-old Serbian showcased his dominance on the ATP Masters 1000 circuit, becoming the oldest semi-finalist in the history of Masters 1000 events.

Djokovic faced challenges during his fourth-round victory over Jaume Munar, battling a leg issue and heat-related fatigue, and once again had to exert significant effort under difficult conditions.

The World No. 5 seemed to be grappling with discomfort in his left foot throughout the opening set, yet he pushed through to achieve his 80th Masters 1000 semi-final appearance - marking yet another record in his illustrious career.

The Serbian player looked ready to clinch the match after breaking Bergs for a 5-4 lead in the second set. However, the 26-year-old Belgian, participating in his first ATP match against Djokovic, showcased remarkable determination by breaking back immediately.

What ensued was one of the tournament's most exhilarating exchanges - Djokovic fought through four smashes and a daring volley from Bergs before reclaiming the break in a thrilling rally. This time, he made no mistakes while serving to secure his milestone victory.

“I was just trying to stay alive to be honest on the court,” Djokovic reflected afterward. “This was my first meeting with Bergs. He’s a fantastic player with a lot of firepower in his game. I focused on just playing an extra ball and making him miss, and that worked. I could have sealed the match at 5-4, but he played well; I was a bit too passive.”

After navigating another tough match, Djokovic recognized the difficulty of adjusting to the conditions in Shanghai. “The conditions are very challenging for all players these days, and I was just trying to survive on the court. I’m pleased to have gotten through this hurdle,” he said.

The 24-time Grand Slam champion is now just two victories away from a record-extending 41st Masters 1000 title, which would be his first since the 2023 Paris Masters.

Awaiting Djokovic in the quest for another Shanghai final is Valentin Vacherot, the Monegasque qualifier who caused an upset against 10th seed Holger Rune with a score of 2-6, 7-6(4), 6-4 earlier in the day.