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**Summary:**

Novak Djokovic secured a victory over Marin Cilic in his opening match at the Shanghai Masters, marking his return to competition since the US Open. Despite struggling with his rhythm and the humid conditions, Djokovic won in straight sets. He will next face Yannick Hanfmann. Meanwhile, Ben Shelton lost his match to David Goffin, impacting his chances to qualify for the ATP Finals. Top seed Alcaraz withdrew due to injury, while Sinner is scheduled to play Saturday.

**News Article:**

**Djokovic Battles Past Cilic in Shanghai Return; Shelton’s ATP Finals Hopes Dented**

**SHANGHAI –** Novak Djokovic overcame a rusty start and humid conditions to defeat Marin Cilic in straight sets (7-6 (2), 6-4) at the Shanghai Masters on Friday, marking his first appearance since his US Open semi-final loss. The Serbian, aiming for a record fifth Shanghai title, admitted to struggling with his rhythm early on.

“I struggled to find my rhythm from the baseline,” said Djokovic. “He didn’t give me time to breathe, so I think I dug myself out of trouble with good serving.”

Djokovic will next face German qualifier Yannick Hanfmann, who defeated Frances Tiafoe.

However, it wasn’t all good news for American tennis fans. Ben Shelton, seeded sixth, suffered a setback in his quest to qualify for the ATP Finals after falling to David Goffin (6-2, 6-4). Shelton, who was returning from a shoulder injury sustained at the US Open, saw his chances of securing a spot in Turin diminish with the loss. He is currently in sixth position in the points race for Turin.

Top-ranked Carlos Alcaraz has withdrawn from the tournament due to minor ailments, while Jannik Sinner, fresh off his China Open victory, is scheduled to play on Saturday.

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