Rolex Shanghai Masters 2025: Quarterfinal Thursday Set to Deliver High-Intensity Clashes in Shanghai
Shanghai, October 9, 2025 – The Rolex Shanghai Masters 2025 reaches its decisive phase on Thursday, with quarterfinal action taking center stage at the Qi Zhong Tennis Center. As the tournament enters its final stretch, fans can expect a day of high-octane tennis featuring some of the sport’s biggest stars and a few surprise contenders who have captured headlines throughout the week.
With a total prize pool of USD 9,193,538, the Shanghai Masters remains one of the most prestigious events on the ATP calendar, and Thursday’s lineup promises to add more drama to a week already filled with memorable moments. The day’s matches will showcase both singles and doubles quarterfinals on the Stadium Court, starting from 12:30 PM local time.
Doubles Quarterfinals Open the Day
The action begins at 12:30 PM with a doubles quarterfinal that brings together four of the most consistent pairs on tour. The Mexican-Dutch team of Santiago Gonzalez and David Pel will face third-seeded Germans Kevin Krawietz and Tim Puetz.
Gonzalez and Pel have impressed with their sharp net play and synchronized teamwork, knocking out several seeded teams en route to the last eight. However, they face a daunting challenge in the experienced German duo, who have both won ATP titles and are known for their aggressive serve-and-volley style.
Krawietz, a former Grand Slam doubles champion, and Puetz, a doubles stalwart with a powerful serve, have shown excellent chemistry throughout the season. This matchup will likely be decided by fine margins, with the Germans entering as slight favorites but aware that Gonzalez and Pel are capable of producing upsets on big stages.
Rune vs. Vacherot: Youth Meets Grit
The first singles quarterfinal of the day, scheduled not before 3:00 PM, pits Denmark’s Holger Rune [10] against Monaco’s Valentin Vacherot [Q], one of the surprise stories of this year’s Shanghai Masters.
Rune, a top-10 mainstay and one of the ATP Tour’s brightest young stars, has found his rhythm again after a mixed start to the season. The Dane’s fearless baseline aggression, combined with his quick reflexes and court coverage, makes him a formidable opponent on Shanghai’s fast hard courts.
His opponent, Valentin Vacherot, has been the breakout sensation of the tournament. Coming through the qualifying rounds, the 26-year-old from Monaco has played fearless tennis, defeating multiple higher-ranked opponents to reach his first-ever Masters 1000 quarterfinal. Vacherot’s composure under pressure and strong all-court game have made him a crowd favorite among neutral fans.
This clash represents a classic battle between a rising elite contender and an underdog chasing a career-defining moment. Rune will be expected to dictate play, but if Vacherot can continue his inspired run, another upset could be on the cards.
Djokovic Returns to Night Session Spotlight
All eyes will turn to Novak Djokovic [4] when he steps onto Stadium Court not before 6:30 PM for his quarterfinal encounter with Zizou Bergs (BEL). Djokovic, a four-time Shanghai Masters champion, is bidding for yet another deep run at one of his most successful events.
The Serbian world No. 1 (as of recent weeks) has looked composed and dominant throughout the tournament, showcasing the trademark precision, court coverage, and mental fortitude that have defined his career. For Djokovic, this week is not just about another title—it’s also about fine-tuning his game heading into the year-end ATP Finals.
Belgian opponent Zizou Bergs, however, has been the revelation of the draw. The 25-year-old has impressed with his aggressive play and positive on-court energy, defeating several higher-seeded players to reach his first Masters quarterfinal. Bergs’s fearless approach and ability to take the ball early have earned him respect from fans and fellow players alike.
Facing Djokovic under the Shanghai lights is no small task, but Bergs will take confidence from his momentum and nothing-to-lose attitude. Expect Djokovic to rely on his tactical mastery, while Bergs will try to dictate rallies early to avoid being drawn into long baseline exchanges.
Evening Doubles: Andreozzi/Guinard vs. Heliovaara/Patten
The final match of the day sees the doubles pairing of Guido Andreozzi (ARG) and Manuel Guinard (FRA)—alternates who have made a surprising run—taking on the second-seeded team of Harri Heliovaara (FIN) and Henry Patten (GBR).
Andreozzi and Guinard have taken full advantage of their alternate entry, playing with freedom and confidence throughout the week. Their teamwork and quick hands at the net have troubled established pairs. However, they will now face one of the tour’s most consistent duos in Heliovaara and Patten.
The Finnish-British combination, seeded second, is known for their exceptional coordination and strategic poise. They enter the quarterfinals in strong form, seeking to secure their spot in the semifinals and stay on track for the prestigious Shanghai title.
A Day of Champions and Surprises
Thursday’s quarterfinal schedule perfectly encapsulates what makes the Rolex Shanghai Masters a favorite among players and fans alike: a blend of elite talent, breakout performers, and high-stakes tennis in a world-class setting.
From Djokovic’s pursuit of another Masters title to Rune’s bid for consistency and Vacherot’s Cinderella story, every match carries its own intrigue. With both singles and doubles quarterfinals taking place on the same stage, spectators at Qi Zhong Tennis Center are set for a day packed with athletic brilliance, mental toughness, and the unmistakable buzz that defines the Asian swing of the ATP Tour.
