Pushed by Hanfmann, Djokovic Comes Through in 3 Sets in Shanghai

Novak Djokovic and Yannick Hanfmann engaged in a real battle on the Center Court in Shanghai.

Thanks to an early break and excellent serving form (8 aces in the first set), the German took the first set with a score of 6-4.

The second set was tighter between the two players, but it was ultimately Djokovic who broke first at 6-5, avoiding a tricky tie-break.

In the decisive set, the Serb took advantage of a drop in the German's serving level to break him in the 4th game. Not troubled on his own serves thereafter, Djokovic ultimately won 4-6, 7-5, 6-3.

He qualifies for the 112th time in his career for the round of 16 of a Masters 1000, equaling Rafael Nadal's record.

Djokovic will face Jaume Munar for a spot in the Shanghai quarterfinals.