Novak Djokovic has joined the list of aggrieved players at the Shanghai Masters. The Serb commenced the Asian hardcourt swing after suffering an early exit at the US Open. Hoping to lift his fifth title in China and, with it, pocket his 100th ATP crown, the veteran will require an impressive string of performances. However, his latest showdown was hampered after a ‘new’ serve clock rule change agitated Nole.

Just a day ago, Frances Tiafoe headlined after indulging in a heated disagreement with the chair umpire. Notably, it was for the same reasons Djokovic blasted during his third-round contest. While locking horns with Roman Safiullin, Nole expressed his frustration over a rule change. Citing his concerns, the former World No. 1 highlighted how the implementation of the serve clock rule causes a lapse in managing the allocated time.

He said, “I get it’s not up to you. But the rule change is unbelievable. Without even notifying any players, they start this new rule. It’s incredible honestly. I get it. You guys want to speed up the pace of the tennis match. But at the same time, we’ve got to know if we’re starting the season this way. We can’t change it midway in the season.”

For those unaware, ATP’s latest regulation – streamlining game flow, induces a 25-second shot rule. This “shot clock” rule starts automatically three seconds after the completion of the previous point. This, in turn, deviates players from their usual match routines and potentially breaks their on-court momentum. Moreover, Spaniard Carlos Alcaraz also condemned the tweaked regulation and vowed to address the ATP with his concerns after losing to Jack Draper at the Queen’s Championship.

As for Djokovic, the Serb is thriving off his latest triumph. Subsequently, the 24-time Grand Slam champion reserved a few words to rate his newly-found ‘fiesty’ form in Shanghai.

Novak Djokovic rates himself ’10’ following Shanghai Masters thriller

Novak Djokovic has seemingly evaded the shadow of his former self in Shanghai. The former World No. 1 notably struggled to maintain his resilience this season after bagging the elusive gold at the Olympics. Now, the No. 4 seed isn’t looking to exit early from the ATP 1000 Masters event.

After overpowering Roman Safiullin, the Serb rated his showdown and later, expressed being on par with his athletic prowess. “Pretty close to 10. I think last night and tonight’s match are maybe some of the best matches I’ve played in a while. I’m just enjoying myself on the court. When you play well and feel good, there’s a lot of joy in striking a tennis ball on the court.”

Next up, Djokovic will square off against Jakub Mensik. Both players will take to the court on Friday, October 11, and hope to further their agenda in Shanghai by advancing to the last eight.