In a result that sent shockwaves through the tennis world, Novak Djokovic's much-anticipated return to Chinese soil ended in stunning disappointment as he fell to Belgian qualifier Tallon Griekspoor at the Shanghai Masters.
The 24-time Grand Slam champion, competing in China for the first time in four years, appeared to be cruising toward victory after claiming the first set. However, the world number 109 mounted an extraordinary fightback to secure a 4-6, 6-4, 6-2 victory that will go down as one of the biggest upsets of the season.
A Match of Two Halves
Djokovic started strongly, displaying the clinical precision that has defined his career. The Serbian superstar broke Griekspoor's serve early and comfortably closed out the first set, suggesting business as usual for the tournament favourite.
Yet the momentum shifted dramatically in the second set as Griekspoor found his rhythm. The Dutch-born Belgian began unleashing powerful groundstrokes that consistently pushed Djokovic behind the baseline, disrupting the world number one's legendary consistency.
Griekspoor's Career-Defining Moment
For Griekspoor, this victory represents the most significant achievement of his career to date. The 27-year-old had never previously taken a set off a top-10 opponent, let alone defeated the greatest player of his generation.
'This is absolutely incredible,' an elated Griekspoor told reporters after the match. 'To beat Novak, especially after losing the first set, is something I'll remember forever. I just kept believing and playing my game.'
Questions Mount for Djokovic
The defeat raises fresh questions about Djokovic's form following his recent US Open final loss to Daniil Medvedev. While the Serbian has enjoyed another phenomenal season, this unexpected early exit marks his quickest departure from a Masters 1000 event since Monte Carlo in April.
Djokovic's frustration was visible throughout the final set as uncharacteristic errors crept into his game. The normally impeccable champion committed 34 unforced errors, with his forehand particularly letting him down during crucial moments.
What's Next for Both Players?
Djokovic will now turn his attention to the ATP Finals in Turin, where he'll seek to secure the year-end world number one ranking. Meanwhile, Griekspoor advances to face 25th seed Jiri Lehecka in what promises to be a career-changing opportunity to progress deeper into a Masters 1000 tournament.
The Shanghai upset continues a trend of surprising results in the ATP Tour this season, proving that even the sport's most dominant forces remain vulnerable on any given day.
