Opening his campaign against world No 43 Alex Michelson of the United States, Djokovic had to draw some extra strength from the cheering Shanghai crowd to shake off the rust from a month-long hiatus since his last match at the US Open, overcoming a sluggish start to beat the big-serving American 7-6(3), 7-6(9) in a pulsating second-round clash.

"I think that brings me extra motivation, particularly because of the love and support that I've been getting today, and all these days, here in Shanghai," said the 37-year-old Serb, who's won the Shanghai tournament four times (2012, 2013, 2015 and 2018).

"I've been coming to China for so many years, but I don't think I've ever experienced this level — this intensity — of support. It's just something that I'm very blessed with, and I'm very privileged to be in a position where I'm supported and followed by so many people.

"China loves tennis, and as a tennis player, being part of a big event like the Shanghai Masters is amazing, particularly this year."