Novak Djokovic beat the American Alex Michelsen in straight sets, qualifying for the 3rd round of the Shanghai Rolex Masters, five years after his last participation in the Chinese ATP Masters 1000 tournament.
Novak Djokovic Introduced on court as the “GOAT”.
First time in history of any sports this has happened. Generational Greatness of the Goat.
China loves Goat 🔥
— SK (@Djoko_UTD) October 5, 2024
In the post-match media conference, the Serbian champion analyzed his comeback in China, in a country where he achieved great results, considering how Nole holds the record for titles – 4 – and victories – 34 – in Shanghai.
“Since I’ve been in China and Shanghai, I’ve received so much love and support. Today on the court was wonderful. Receiving support and love from the fans like this is exactly why I came. I really missed being in Shanghai, I missed China. Five years is really too long for the kind of support I’m receiving here. I thank them all for the atmosphere they created,” he explained.
On the expectations for the tournament, for the end of the season and for the future, the Serbian champion analyzed: “They are always there. In every tournament I play, in every place I play, in every match I play, people expect me to win. I’m used to that now. Of course I have high expectations from myself too. In every match, against whoever, everywhere, I want to win. The fact that I haven’t been here for five years gives me extra motivation, especially because of the love and support I’m receiving these days. I’m honored to be part of an event like this.”
Shanghai I’ve missed you! Thank you for the support and the kind introduction 🙏🏼. 我爱上海 pic.twitter.com/djuSHGxOiX
— Novak Djokovic (@DjokerNole) October 5, 2024
It was the first match with Michelsen. A top-level opponent, to whom Nole paid tribute in the press conference.
“It took me a while to shake off the rust from not playing competitive matches for several weeks. I’ve seen Alex play for the last two years, but I’ve never faced him. I think these conditions are suitable for him. He has a great serve, he has an attacking style of tennis and, yes, it was very challenging for me,” he added.