Tue Oct 07 10:40:00 UTC 2025: ## Shanghai Masters Shocker: Fritz Upset, Sinner Retires, Djokovic Battles Through
**SHANGHAI, China** – The Shanghai Masters saw dramatic twists and turns on Sunday, with upsets, retirements, and hard-fought victories under brutal conditions. Frenchman Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard delivered a stunning blow, defeating world number four Taylor Fritz 6-4, 7-5 to advance to the fourth round.
The big-serving Mpetshi Perricard fired 12 aces, breaking Fritz in each set to secure his first tour victory against the American. He will now face 10th-seeded Holger Rune in the next round.
However, the day was also marked by disappointment as defending champion Jannik Sinner was forced to retire due to severe leg cramps. After winning the China Open in Beijing just days earlier, Sinner struggled in the humid conditions and was trailing Tallon Griekspoor 6-7 (3), 7-5, 3-2 when he made the decision to abandon the match.
“This is definitely not the way you want to win,” Griekspoor commented. “Brutal conditions here in Shanghai all week already… I’m sorry for him. I wish him a speedy recovery.”
In another notable match, world number one Novak Djokovic endured a grueling battle against German qualifier Yannick Hanfmann before rallying to win 4-6, 7-5, 6-3. Djokovic struggled with Hanfmann’s strong serve and net play and even vomited during a changeover in the second set, citing the oppressive humidity.
“It’s the same for every player out on the court, but it’s brutal,” Djokovic said. “It’s brutal when you have over 80 percent of humidity day after day.”
Djokovic, aiming for a record-extending fifth Shanghai Masters title, will face Jaume Munar in the next round.
Other results included Holger Rune’s victory over Ugo Humbert, Zizou Bergs’ upset of Francisco Cerundolo, and Gabriel Diallo’s advancement due to David Goffin’s retirement. Top-ranked Carlos Alcaraz is absent from the tournament due to minor ailments. The extreme heat and humidity continue to play a significant role in the Shanghai Masters, testing the endurance of the players and leading to unexpected outcomes.
First Piper 