If you think Novak Djokovic and Jannik Sinner are the only showstoppers at the Shanghai Masters, you need a quick revision. While both players locked horns and showcased an impressive blockbuster final, Roger Federer and Carlos Alcaraz stole the show with their cryptic discussions. With big stakes on Nole on the line – a career 100th ATP title, the Serb looked to decimate the top seed’s challenge. But so far, the 24-time Grand Slam champion hasn’t had much luck… naturally handing more topics for Federer and Alcaraz to discuss.

Having entered into the ATP 1000 Masters event as the clear favorite, Djokovic’s quest for a fifth crown in China seems to be slipping off his hands. Sinner capitalized on his strengths to dislocate Djokovic’s momentum, engaging in a tough battle in the first set. However, despite the Serb’s resilience, the top seed narrowly clinched the opener in a tiebreaker. However, not all eyes were focused on the superstar duo.

Spectating from the stands, Federer and Spaniard Alcaraz were constantly witnessed engaging in serious discussions during the match. Moreover, the pair was also joined by the Spanish sensation’s coach, Juan Carlos Ferrero. Their chit-chat moments, in turn, were adequately aired live by broadcasting services.

Regardless of their presence, the aftermath of the highly anticipated contest wasn’t a pretty picture for Djokovic. The Serb lost the showdown and, with it, his chance to add a 100th silverware to his resume. As for Sinner, he clinched his seventh title for this season, including the Australian Open and US Open crowns.

For those unaware, Federer has been making rounds in the sport lately. The veteran recently made an appearance at the Laver Cup, where he stayed true to his word and apologized to Alcaraz for not taking the opportunity to spend extra practice time with Alcaraz. Now, the Swiss legend returned to Shanghai as a spectator.

However, before witnessing Nole in action, Federer played in a doubles exhibition match at the event and engaged in a hilarious behind-the-scenes conversation with the Serbian giant.

Roger Federer amusingly calls long-standing rival Novak Djokovic an “old man”

There’s no falling off of Swiss superstar Roger Federer’s sense of humor. The 20-time Major winner champion seldom disappoints fans. Before heading into an exhibition event at the Shanghai Masters and stepping on the court, Fed crossed paths with the long-standing rival and 99 tour-level title holder Novak Djokovic as he walked off the court after cruising past his quarterfinal date with Jakub Mensik.

“Hey Old Man,” said the 43-year-old to Nole, as the duo shook hands in hilarious off-court scenes in Shanghai. Federer, who won the event twice in 2014 and 2017, joined forces with prominent Chinese singer and actor, Eason Chan, to treat fans with a light-heartened doubles contest at the ATP 1000 Masters event.

As for Djokovic, the Serb will likely take some time off to recover and come to terms with his disappointing loss in Shanghai. The former World No. 1 will next take to the courts at the ATP Finals where he will aim for his 100th crown once again and, with it, a successful conclusion to the season.