Novak Djokovic ‘just trying to stay alive’ during win in sweltering Shanghai

Djokovic defeated Zizou Bergs and will next face 204th-ranked Valentin Vacherot.

Novak Djokovic survived another physical test in Shanghai. Picture: Andy Wong/AP

Novak Djokovic said he was trying to “stay alive” after battling through to the semi-finals of the Shanghai Masters.

The 38-year-old is among those to have struggled with the hot and humid conditions this week but he remains on course for a first Masters 1000 title in nearly two years after beating Zizou Bergs 6-3 7-5.