SHANGHAI (AP) — Novak Djokovic launched his bid for a record-extending fifth title at the Shanghai Masters by beating Marin Cilic in straight sets on Friday in the Serbian’s first match since the U.S. Open.

The fourth-seeded Djokovic struggled to maintain a grip early in the second-round match and sprinkled sawdust on his hands to combat the humidity. He prevailed 7-6 (2), 6-4.

After breaking serve early in the second set, Djokovic fought off two break points in the final game before sealing victory with his 10th ace.

It was his first match since losing to Carlos Alcaraz in the U.S. Open semifinals.

“I struggled to find my rhythm from the baseline,” Djokovic said. “I (lacked) some matches, my last one was at the U.S. Open, so I got a really tough opener against Marin, who when he is fe

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