Shanghai Masters 2025 Preview: Sinner set to defend title as Djokovic returns

The Rolex Shanghai Masters will take place from 1–12 October at the Qi Zhong Tennis Center, a venue known for its lotus-shaped roof and one of the most popular stops on the ATP Tour.

This prestigious tournament, first held in 2009, is now a key part of the season and regularly attracts the sport’s biggest names.

This year is no different. The line-up includes all the superstars: Jannik Sinner, Carlos Alcaraz, Alexander Zverev, Taylor Fritz, Ben Shelton and Novak Djokovic, along with Alex de Minaur, Holger Rune and Lorenzo Musetti.

Sinner the Man to Beat

World number 2 Jannik Sinner comes to Shanghai as the defending champion after beating Djokovic in last year’s final. That win, his fourth Masters 1000 title, made him the youngest champion in tournament history at 23.

The Italian has grown into one of the leading players on the Tour, combining consistent groundstrokes with power and stamina. He will start as one of the clear favourites, but the challenge this time will be even greater.

The Challengers

Carlos Alcaraz is likely to be Sinner’s biggest rival. The Spaniard already has Grand Slam titles and their meetings have quickly become some of the most exciting matches on the calendar, providing us with memorable moments like the one on the Roland Garros final.

Alexander Zverev has the weapons to trouble anyone on his day, while the Americans Taylor Fritz and Ben Shelton add extra depth to the draw. Shelton’s fearless style and powerful serve could make him a dangerous outsider and a problem for favourites.

And then there is Novak Djokovic. The four-time champion is the most successful player in Shanghai with 39 career wins at the event. He remains hugely popular with local fans and, despite his defeat to Sinner last year, still has the ability to go all the way.

Shanghai Masters Dates and Schedule

The tournament begins with qualifying on 29–30 September, before the main draw starts on 1 October.

Matches will take place in the afternoon and evening, with the singles final scheduled for Sunday, 12 October at 4:30 p.m. local time.

Prize Money and ATP Points

The total prize fund is US$9,193,538.

The singles champion will earn $1,124,360 and 1000 ATP ranking points, with the runner-up taking home $597,890 and 650 points.

Even a first-round win brings valuable points in the race for the season-ending ATP Finals.

History and records

Djokovic leads the record books with four singles titles, while Marcelo Melo holds the doubles record with three.

Roger Federer was the oldest champion at 36 in 2017, while Sinner became the youngest last year.

Hubert Hurkacz’s win in 2023 as the 17th seed proved that surprises are always possible in Shanghai.

What to Expect in 2025

This year’s event looks set to be another battle between the generations.

Sinner and Alcaraz are pushing to dominate the sport, while Djokovic continues to prove that experience and quality can still overcome youth.

With Zverev, Fritz and Shelton also in the mix, no match will be straightforward.

The Shanghai Masters has built a reputation for drama and quality tennis, and the 2025 edition should be no different.