Sat Oct 12 11:10:00 UTC 2024: ## Djokovic and Fritz Advance to Shanghai Masters Semifinals
**SHANGHAI** – Novak Djokovic and Taylor Fritz secured their spots in the semifinals of the Shanghai Masters on Friday, setting up a clash between the two seasoned veterans.
Djokovic, a four-time champion in Shanghai, overcame a tough first set to defeat Czech player Jakub Mensik 6-7 (4), 6-1, 6-4. Despite Mensik’s impressive 17 aces, the 24-time Grand Slam winner capitalized on his opponent’s 32 unforced errors to turn the match around.
“We went toe-to-toe until the last moment,” Djokovic commented after the match. “I stayed collected and started very well in the second set.”
Meanwhile, Fritz, the American No.1, dominated his quarterfinal match against David Goffin of Belgium, winning 6-3, 6-4. The 26-year-old displayed strong control throughout the encounter, converting three of his seven break points.
“I feel like sometimes it takes a couple of matches to find my routines,” Fritz said. “Once I get past the first two rounds, I feel very locked in.”
The upcoming semifinal match between Djokovic and Fritz holds particular intrigue as the Serbian star holds a perfect 9-0 record against the American.
The other semifinal will feature top-ranked Jannik Sinner, who will face Tomas Machac, the player who upset second-ranked Carlos Alcaraz in the quarterfinals. The semis are scheduled for Saturday.
First Piper 