Djokovic, who hasn't won a single title on the Tour in, arguably, his most barren season in years, is soaking up the energy from his "Nole-Fam" in China as he bids to collect his fifth Shanghai Masters crown and a monumental 100th career title in the East China metropolis.

"It feels great. I missed it. It's been a while — five years — since I last came to, honestly, one of the happiest places I've had in my career; a country where I've had plenty of successes on the tennis courts, many titles won, great memories," said Djokovic, who is making his 10th appearance at the only topflight ATP tournament in Asia.

" (I've had) a lot of great support from the fans here in China. They are probably the most unique, the most passionate fans, and are always so dedicated; waiting for you, giving you presents and really feeding you with a lot of love and energy."

And he needed that support to get his quest for a 100th title off to a flying start.