Novak Djokovic
Novak Djokovic is the defending Shanghai Masters champion Getty

Novak Djokovic takes on Fabio Fognini in the men's singles second round clash of the 2016 China Open on Tuesday (11 October).

Where to watch live

Match starts at 11am BST. Live coverage of the game will be available in the UK on Sky Sports 1 and Sky Sports 1 HD. Click here to watch the match via live stream.

Overview

World number one Djokovic will be making his first appearance on the court on Tuesday since his US Open final loss where he lost to Stan Wawrinka in four sets. The Serb has admitted that he suffered from a loss of passion for tennis and was plagued by injuries and personal problems in the recent past.

Although the 28-year-old is still one of the most feared players at present, he comes into this clash as the defending champion, having won the title three times in the past. Djokovic is the favourite ahead of the clash and will look to start the competition on a winning note.

His opponent, Fabio Fognini has not had a season to remember, winning just two Grand Slam matches in 2016 and comes into this clash on the back of a disappointing performance at the recently concluded China Open, where he crashed out in the second round after losing to David Ferrer.

The Italian is ranked 50th in men's tennis and does not have good memories of facing Djokovic, losing all their seven meetings in the past and it is unlikely that he will halt that losing streak come 11 October.

Betting odds (betfair)

  • Novak Djokovic to win: 1/20
  • Fabio Fognini to win: 10

Head-to-head

The duo have faced each other seven times in ATP tours and Grand slam events, with Djokovic holding a 100% win record. The last time they faced off was in the round of 16 of the 2014 Australian Open with Djokovic winning 6-3, 6-0, 6-2.

Shanghai Masters history

Djokovic and Fognini have faced each other once at the Shanghai Masters in 2009 with the Serb beating Fognini 6-3, 6-1 in the round of 32.

Novak Djokovic China