Novak Djokovic survived an intense battle against Jaume Munar on Tuesday (October 7) to remain in the Shanghai Masters.
The Serbian outlasted his opponent 6-3 5-7 6-2 after two-hours-and-40-minutes of action in the last 16 contest at the ATP Masters 1000 event.
The 24-time major winner made history following his win, as at 38 years and four months, he became the oldest player to ever reach the last eight of a Masters 1000 event.
Djokovic surpasses Swiss icon Roger Federer, who was 38 years and two months, when he achieved the feat at the same event six years ago.
With Jannik Sinner having withdrawn and Alexander Zverev being knocked out in the third round, Djokovic is the highest remaining seed left in the tournament draw.
Despite having to battle through in the early rounds, Djokovic will now fancy his chances of adding to his record four singles titles in Shanghai.
📲 Follow The Sporting News on WhatsApp
The Serbian has not won a Masters 1000 title since triumphing at the Paris Masters in 2023.
How the contest in Shanghai unfolded
Getty
Djokovic eventually landed the decisive break of the opening set against Munar at the fourth opportunity to go up 3-1, but there was cause for concern as he had to receive treatment for an ankle issue.
The 38-year-old had to also battle with the very humid conditions in the Chinese city, as temperatures exceeded 30 degrees Celsius and 80% humidity.
He was unable to wrap up the contest in straight sets despite successfully holding off a break point when trailing 4-3 in the second set.
Munar forced the decider after coming out on top in a sensational long rally on Djokovic's serve in the final game of the second set.
Djokovic appeared exhausted immediately after the 75-minute second set was over, causing him to have to get his blood pressure checked.
However, the second set appeared to also affect Munar physically, as Djokovic broke the Spaniard in the very first game, before securing a double break later to go up 5-2.
The four-time Shanghai champion served out the contest on his second match point to secure passage into the next round.
Djokovic acknowledged the tough nature of his latest match on Instagram afterwards, writing: "Tough day at the office. Very challenging physically. Luckily, I have the greatest support in the world."
The veteran star will face Zizou Bergs in the quarter-final on Thursday (October 9), after the Belgian took care of business against Gabriel Diallo.
Tennis news and related links
Amanda Anisimova finally has reason to celebrate after recent Grand Slam final losses
Qinwen Zheng dismisses Iga Swiatek's criticism of the current tennis schedule
Jannik Sinner collects 21st career title after beating teenage opponent in Beijing