Novak Djokovic beat the American Alex Michelsen in straight units, qualifying for the third spherical of the Shanghai Rolex Masters, 5 years after his final participation within the Chinese language ATP Masters 1000 event.
Novak Djokovic Launched on court docket because the “GOAT”.
First time in historical past of any sports activities this has occurred. Generational Greatness of the Goat.
China loves Goat 🔥
— SK (@Djoko_UTD) October 5, 2024
Within the post-match media convention, the Serbian champion analyzed his comeback in China, in a rustic the place he achieved nice outcomes, contemplating how Nole holds the file for titles – 4 – and victories – 34 – in Shanghai.
“Since I have been in China and Shanghai, I’ve obtained a lot love and assist. As we speak on the court docket was great. Receiving assist and love from the followers like that is precisely why I got here. I actually missed being in Shanghai, I missed China. 5 years is admittedly too lengthy for the type of assist I am receiving right here. I thank all of them for the ambiance they created,” he defined.
On the expectations for the event, for the tip of the season and for the long run, the Serbian champion analyzed: “They’re all the time there. In each event I play, in each place I play, in each match I play, folks count on me to win. I am used to that now. After all I’ve excessive expectations from myself too. In each match, in opposition to whoever, all over the place, I need to win. The truth that I have never been right here for 5 years provides me further motivation, particularly due to the love and assist I am receiving today. I am honored to be a part of an occasion like this.”
Shanghai I’ve missed you! Thanks for the assist and the sort introduction 🙏🏼. 我爱上海 pic.twitter.com/djuSHGxOiX
— Novak Djokovic (@DjokerNole) October 5, 2024
It was the primary match with Michelsen. A top-level opponent, to whom Nole paid tribute within the press convention.
“It took me some time to shake off the rust from not enjoying aggressive matches for a number of weeks. I’ve seen Alex play for the final two years, however I’ve by no means confronted him. I believe these situations are appropriate for him. He has an incredible serve, he has an attacking model of tennis and, sure, it was very difficult for me,” he added.
