Djokovic beats Fritz to set up Shanghai final with Sinner

Shanghai (Reuters): Novak Djokovic moved a step closer to his 100th ATP title on Saturday when he beat American seventh seed Taylor Fritz 6-4 7-6(6) in the Shanghai Masters semi-finals to set up a title decider against top-ranked Jannik Sinner.

Earlier on Saturday, Sinner secured the year-end world number one ranking by beating Czech 30th seed Tomas Machac 6-4 7-5 and becoming the first Italian to reach the final.

Djokovic, the 24-times Grand Slam champion, will play his fifth final in the tournament's history, looking to claim his 100th ATP title as well as his fifth Shanghai Masters crown.

"I came here this year definitely with the vision or desire to get to the final and fight for 100 titles," Djokovic said.

"I've got that chance against the best player in the world and let's see what happens."

Fourth seed Djokovic came into the match with a remarkable 9-0 head-to-head record against Fritz and immediately turned up the pressure in the opening game, forcing the American to successfully defend three break points.

The Serbian kept Fritz on the ropes with his powerful and precise groundstrokes, using his backhand to devastating effect as he racked up three more break points at 2-2.

Fritz was only able to fend off one before sending a backhand flying wide, with the break proving decisive as Djokovic wrapped up the opener with his first ace of the match.

U.S. Open finalist Fritz built up some momentum in the second set after holding serve in a tight game where Djokovic landed a series of spectacular passing shots, before earning his first two break point opportunities of the match at 4-3.