Novak Djokovic sets unbelievable record after 'crazy' problem at Shanghai Masters

Serbian tennis icon Novak Djokovic established an extraordinary new milestone at the Shanghai Masters on Friday despite battling through 'crazy' humidity against Croatia's Marin Cilic. The 24-time Grand Slam champion advanced to the next round of the competition with apparent ease courtesy of a 7-6 (7-2), 6-4 triumph.

Nevertheless, the encounter in China proved far from straightforward. During the clash with Cilic, Djokovic was repeatedly spotted requesting towels to cool down and wipe away perspiration during an incredibly humid day in Shanghai.

After his victory, Djokovic addressed the conditions in his post-match press conference. "The humidity here is crazy, honestly," he revealed.

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"I don't remember the weather being this humid in China. I can't remember the last time I played in humidity like this.

"It is what it is; it's the same for me, my opponent, and everyone else. You have to accept it and deal with it.

"You sweat a lot, the laundry bills are going to be really high this week, but it's great. I hope it doesn't stop me."

Leaving the court, Djokovic would have been thrilled to have established a fresh record that will require considerable effort to surpass. The 38-year-old has now accumulated 20 or more wins against seven different rivals on the ATP Tour.

His greatest number of victories have arrived against his former adversaries; Rafael Nadal (31), Roger Federer (27) and Andy Murray (25). Yet, he has also managed to defeat Tomas Berdych 25 times, Stanislas Warwinka on 21 occasions and Gael Monfils 20 times.

Djokovic's latest triumph over Cilic in Shanghai marks his 20th victory against him too. The Serb is now set to face off with unseeded German, Yannick Hanfmann in the next round.

The duo have only crossed paths once and never on a hard court. Their sole encounter was last year on clay at the Geneva Open where on that occasion, Djokovic emerged victorious in straight sets, 6-3, 6-3.