Arch-rivals Novak Djokovic and Carlos Alcaraz were seen exchanging jokes and few laughs during ATP Shanghai Masters 2024. Djokovic greeted Alcaraz by calling him as the ‘Small Titan’ as the pair then exchanged a few words in Spanish. Although their rivalry is fierce on the court, the pair always seem to enjoy each other’s company off-court.

As Djokovic came up to Alcaraz, the Spaniard greeted him in Spanish. He was seen asking Djokovic ‘What’s up dude’ as Djokovic replied the same and hugged him. Djokovic also said, ‘But you’re too much on the court, I’m outside of the court, I’m enjoying my time off the court man.’ They wished good luck to each other while saying goodbye.

Djokovic was seen holding a scale replica helmet when he met Alcaraz which he received from Chinese F1 racer Zhou Guanyu as a gift. Alcaraz had also met Guyanyu earlier as the racer shared the pics of meeting both players on Instagram.

Meanwhile, Djokovic and Alcaraz are potential finalists in Shanghai this year. They are expected to clash in the championship match which will be held on October 13. The 37-year-old will next play against Roman Safiullin in the fourth round while Alcaraz is set to face-off against Gael Monfils. The world No #2 and Djokovic are looking to break records in Shanghai this time.

Hear how Novak fondly calls Alcaraz, “Titan.”
Novak recognises greatness in Alcaraz.
Novak’s charm, respect and love for others is even greater than his records.

This is aura.pic.twitter.com/TzGuqD25VE

— Thuso the Dragon Slayer🏅 (@djokernoler) October 5, 2024

Djokovic is looking to be the oldest champion in the event as Roger Federer was 36 when he won the title in 2017. He is also looking to extend his lead on the top with most titles as he currently has four. Alcaraz on the other hand is looking to be the youngest winner at the age of 21. The current youngest winner record in Shanghai is held by former player, Andy Murray who clinched the title in 2010.

Ever since making its debut on the ATP tour in 2009, Shanghai Masters has seen top players claim the titles consistently. There have been rare instances where the underdogs lifted the trophy such as Hubert Hurkacz in 2023. One of the records which has been standing strong is of Murray who won the title in 2010 at the age of 23.

It was one of the most dominating performances in Shanghai as the Brit player did not drop a single set on his way to lifting the trophy. He did not concede more than seven games in a match and only dropped five games in the final against Federer. Murray went on to defend the title the next season and became the first player to win successive titles at ATP Shanghai Masters.

This time, Alcaraz could break Murray’s record and is four matches away from achieving the feat. The four-time grand slam champion is playing in Shanghai for the second time as he had lost in the fourth round to Grigor Dimitrov in 2023. Alcaraz is currently on a seven match winning streak which saw him capturing the China Open. He would want to end the Asian swing with a title in his hands.

Alcaraz had become the first player to win ATP 500 titles in every surface after winning in China Open. Now he has a much more bigger task in hand in Shanghai.

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