Novak Djokovic reflects on his tennis passion and playful language challenges during his return to China after five years, setting the stage for an exciting Shanghai Masters

Novak Djokovic is back in China, preparing for the Shanghai Masters after a five-year absence from the country, and he’s not just working on his tennis. The 24-time Grand Slam champion, now on the cusp of what many see as the twilight of his glittering career, has found that his Chinese language skills, once a personal project, are a little rusty. Despite this light-hearted setback, Djokovic remains as focused as ever on dominating the court, all while maintaining his long-standing affection for the sport that has defined his life.

In a press conference ahead of the tournament, Djokovic tested his Chinese speaking skills, much to the amusement of both the local media and himself. “My love for tennis is as deep as ever,” he said, albeit with a few linguistic stumbles that caused some raised eyebrows in the room. Realising his mistake, he laughed and acknowledged: “I probably missed a couple of words there, it’s been five years, and I have to practise.”

The Serbian great is no stranger to China, a country he holds close to his heart, not just for its rich tennis culture but for the warmth and enthusiasm of the fans. During this latest visit, Djokovic even participated in a promotional event playing tennis atop the iconic Great Wall of China. The stunning backdrop served as a reminder of his strong connection to the country and its people, and a metaphor for his unwavering commitment to his game.

“I have to work on my Chinese,” Djokovic admitted with a smile, “I’ve regressed, I must say. Five years, it’s been way too long.”

For Djokovic, whose career has been marked by constant reinvention and resilience, this playful episode with the Chinese language symbolises his ability to reflect on imperfections while striving for improvement. Whether it’s on the court or off it, he remains a relentless pursuer of excellence.

But make no mistake, Djokovic’s eye remains firmly on the prize. The Shanghai Masters is more than just another tournament; it’s a stage where Djokovic has historically shone, having won the prestigious title four times. For him, this tournament represents a return to one of his favourite hunting grounds. “Being back in China feels special,” he said. “The atmosphere here is unique, and the fans have always been supportive. I’m looking forward to competing again.”

As the tennis season draws towards its close, Djokovic finds himself in a unique position. At 37, his longevity in the sport is nothing short of remarkable. However, with the relentless rise of younger stars like Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner, Djokovic knows that every tournament presents a fresh challenge. These new talents bring their own flair to the game, and Djokovic respects their contribution while continuing to assert his dominance.

His preparation for Shanghai has been meticulous, combining his love of tennis with the importance of staying grounded. Djokovic’s decision to return to China, despite the rigours of a long season, reflects his understanding that the sport’s global appeal and his personal connection with fans in various countries are just as important as the trophies he chases. This holistic approach has always been a hallmark of his career.

And yet, despite his incredible success, Djokovic remains mindful of what the future holds. As his peers such as Roger Federer have retired and others have started considering life after tennis, Djokovic’s post-playing career looms large. He has previously spoken about his plans to remain involved in the sport, likely through mentoring or coaching the next generation of players. It’s a natural progression for a man whose impact on tennis extends far beyond just winning matches.

That said, Djokovic’s focus remains firmly on the present. The Shanghai Masters offers him yet another opportunity to add to his already extraordinary legacy. The tournament, which takes place on the hard courts of the Qizhong Forest Sports City Arena, suits Djokovic’s all-around game. With his blend of athleticism, strategic intelligence, and an unshakeable mental fortitude, Djokovic is considered one of the top contenders for the title.

But as the competition heats up, so does the pressure. The Serbian star faces a field packed with talent, including familiar foes and new challengers alike. Players such as Daniil Medvedev, Stefanos Tsitsipas, and Jannik Sinner all have their eyes on glory, while Djokovic must rely on his vast experience and tactical nous to fend them off.

Reflecting on his career, Djokovic shared his thoughts on staying motivated after so many years at the pinnacle of the sport. “For me, tennis is a never-ending journey of growth. Each match teaches me something new, each challenge makes me stronger,” he said. His continued love for the sport is evident, as is his desire to continue competing at the highest level for as long as his body allows.

In the days leading up to the Shanghai Masters, Djokovic has been seen practising relentlessly, focusing on his movement and fine-tuning his groundstrokes. His commitment to every aspect of the game, from the physical to the psychological, is what has made him a dominant force for so long. And while his Chinese may need a bit of brushing up, Djokovic’s tennis remains as sharp as ever.