Jakub Mensik vs Novak Djokovic Prediction: Jakub don't stand a chance

A quarterfinal mouthwatering clash between Jakub Menšík and Novak Djokovic will be an exciting contest between a growing Czech star and one of the all-time greats during the 2024 Shanghai Masters. Djokovic, the four-time Shanghai champion, will want to add to his storied legacy, whereas Menšík will look to build on the momentum after an absolute stunning victory over Grigor Dimitrov in the Round of 16. Despite the big difference in ranking and experience, the recent form of Menšík at least suggests he can make this an interesting fight.

This will be their first meeting, and with the lack of familiarity, Menšík can enjoy some early chances to test the adaptability of Djokovic. However, Djokovic has a considerable amount of experience against young challengers and is known for his quick adjustments in the game.

Coming into the match on a four-match win streak, Menšík showed his resilience and mental strength against Dimitrov. While in good form, though, Menšík is, Djokovic's dominance in ATP Masters 1000 events-a record 40 titles-hands him the clear favorite tag.

First, he has to make the most out of his first serve, as this will do him a world of good in an effective way. Menšík needs to try and remain at or near his 78% success rate of first-serve points. Secondly, Menšík has to try and break Djokovic's rhythm by hitting some aggressive groundstrokes and mixing these with drop shots to challenge Djokovic's court coverage. This will shorten the points and, if anything, avoid staying too much in long rallies because that plays into Djokovic's hands.

Djokovic enters having routed Roman Safiullin 6-3, 6-2, his eighth consecutive victory in straight sets. He is in search of a fifth Shanghai title and is the all-time leader in wins in this event.

Djokovic will be looking to exploit his superior baseline game and utilize his high-quality return game to neutralize the Menšík serve-particularly the second serve-as he won only 40% of points in his last match. It is also going to be a test on the Czech to keep up high first-serve percentages against the ability of Djokovic to absorb pace and redirect with depth.

Given Djokovic's form and mastery of Masters 1000 events, he will go into this match as the overwhelming favorite. His stats from the last match were indicative of his fearsome return game, winning 57% of points on his opponent's second serve while saving all break points. Menšík will need to be at his absolute best and hope for an off-day from Djokovic in order to have a chance.

• Under 21.5 Games @ 1.61 Odds
• Under 20.5 Games @ 1.76 Odds
• Novak Djokovic (-4.5) Games Handicap @ 1.61 Odds