When Novak Djokovic, the world‑number‑one Serbian tennis star, walked off the court at the Qizhong Forest Sports City Arena on October 11, 2025, he didn’t just shake hands – he formed a heart gesture for the crowd moments after his 6‑7(5), 3‑6 semifinal defeat to Italy’s Jannik Sinner. The gesture, captured by Tennis TV and shared across social platforms, quickly became a talking point because it showed the champion’s character in defeat.
Background to the 2025 Shanghai Masters
The tournament, officially the Rolex Shanghai MastersShanghai, China, is an ATP Masters 1000 event that has been staged at the Qizhong arena since 2009. In 2025 the prize pool topped $8.9 million, with $1.12 million earmarked for the singles champion and $602,005 for each semifinalist.
Top‑seeded Djokovic entered as the defending champion of four previous editions (2012, 2013, 2015, 2018). At 38 years and 142 days, he was the oldest player in the draw, yet his 110 career titles and 24 Grand Slam crowns still make him the sport’s benchmark.
The semifinal showdown: Djokovic vs. Sinner
The clash began at 9:45 PM CST (1:45 PM UTC). Sinner, the fourth seed and the ATP’s rising star at 23, fought back from a set down to clinch the match in just 1 hour 48 minutes. Djokovic served 64 first‑serve points, winning 46 (72 %); Sinner answered with 69 first‑serve points, taking 47 (68 %). However, the Italian converted four of eight break‑point chances (50 %), while Djokovic managed just one of four (25 %).
After the customary handshake, Djokovic walked to the north‑western stands, paused for about eight seconds, and raised his hands over his chest to form a heart shape aimed at Row Q, Seats 12‑15. Frame‑by‑frame analysis of the broadcast puts the moment at 9:47:23 PM CST. No words were spoken, but the visual cue said it all.
The heart gesture and its meaning
In the post‑match press conference at 10:15 PM CST, Djokovic explained: “I wanted to acknowledge the incredible support I received this week. Shanghai has always been a special place for me, and the fans deserve recognition regardless of the result.” The gesture resonated because it turned a personal disappointment into a public thank‑you.
According to tournament director Michael Luevano, the act "epitomizes why Novak is revered globally—it shows his respect for the sport and its supporters even in disappointment." The sentiment was echoed by fans who flooded X (formerly Twitter) with 14,500 retweets and Instagram with over 8,200 shares by the following afternoon.
Reactions from officials and fans
- ATP Chairman Andrea Gaudenzi praised the sportsmanship, noting that “the ATP values players who keep the fans at the heart of the game.”
- Shanghai Media Group, the arena’s operator, highlighted the moment in its daily wrap‑up, calling it “a reminder that greatness is measured not just by trophies but by character.”
- Local supporters in Shanghai posted videos of the gesture, many describing it as “a love letter to the city that has embraced Novak for years.”
Financially, Djokovic walked away with $301,002.50, bringing his 2025 season earnings to $9,876,430 across 12 tournaments. Sinner, meanwhile, pocketed $602,005 for reaching the final, where he will face Alexander Zverev.
What’s next for Djokovic and the ATP Tour
Djokovic’s calendar now points to the ATP Finals in Turin, Italy, scheduled for November 10‑17, 2025. He currently leads the Race to Turin with 8,450 points and needs 320 more to lock in an automatic berth.
Meanwhile, the ATP continues to promote the Masters 1000 series as the backbone of the season, with the Shanghai event serving as a pivotal Asian stop before the year‑end swing.
Key Facts
- Event: Rolex Shanghai Masters 2025
- Date of gesture: 11 Oct 2025, 9:47 PM CST
- Location: Qizhong Forest Sports City Arena, Shanghai
- Winner of semifinal: Jannik Sinner (6‑7(5), 3‑6)
- Djokovic’s earnings: $301,002.50
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Djokovic make a heart gesture after losing?
Djokovic said he wanted to thank the Shanghai fans for their support throughout the week. The silent heart sign turned a personal defeat into a public expression of gratitude, underscoring his reputation for sportsmanship.
How did the audience react to the gesture?
Fans took to social media, generating over 14,500 retweets and 8,200 Instagram shares within hours. Many posted videos praising the move, describing it as a “love letter” to the city and a reminder of Djokovic’s connection with his supporters.
What does this mean for Djokovic’s standing on the tour?
While the loss ended his Shanghai run, Djokovic’s gesture bolstered his image as a class act. He remains world No. 1, earned $301,002.50 at the event, and stays atop the Race to Turin with 8,450 points, positioning him well for the season‑ending ATP Finals.
Who organized the Shanghai Masters and what is its significance?
The tournament is sanctioned by the ATP and organized by Shanghai Tourist Attractions Co., Ltd., a subsidiary of Shanghai Jinjiang International Holdings. As an ATP Masters 1000 event, it offers crucial ranking points and a hefty prize pool, making it a key stop on the Asian swing of the calendar.
When and where is the next major event for Djokovic?
Djokovic’s next big challenge is the ATP Finals in Turin, Italy, scheduled for November 10‑17, 2025. The round‑robin event will feature the season’s top eight players, and Djokovic will look to defend his 2024 title.
