Novak Djokovic suffers major injury fears as he is beaten by Jannik Sinner

Jannik Sinner recorded another win against Novak Djokovic in the semi-finals of the Six Kings Slam in Saudi Arabia, with the damage caused in that match threatening to leave a permanent scar on both players.

Sinner and Djokovic renewed their rivalry just four days after meeting in the Shanghai Masters final and once again it was Sinner who emerged victorious.

This may be a show and the huge sums of money paid to players have caused great debate in the tennis world since this event was announced earlier this year, but Sinner vs Djokovic felt like much more than a show.

Although both players appeared to be struggling with injuries a few days after their long runs at the Shanghai Masters, the quality of tennis in front of a huge crowd was a real eye-catcher.

The biggest concern for Djokovic was his shoulder problem, which was clearly affecting his serve, while Sinner admitted after the match that he was “not at his best” following his run to the China Open final and his sin in Shanghai.

Djokovic’s performance, winning the second set 7-0 in a tiebreak, was particularly impressive, but the shoulder injury that was causing him problems may have been a factor as he won 6-2, 6-7 (0), 6 :4 lost.

“Not too many days ago we played a final in Shanghai,” said Sinner. “We were both a bit tired and made a few mistakes.

“We all love playing here. Thank you everyone for coming. That’s why we’re here.

“I just tried to reset as quickly as possible. I’m happy with how I handled the game. Let’s see what happens on Saturday. Hopefully it will be good. That’s why we’re all here.

“We are all trying to raise our level and make the best use of every point. We take it very seriously. I’m just trying to improve our game. Also for the next meetings. We know each other quite well.

“Today I was nervous too. Sometimes I can’t control myself when I’m a little tired. It’s good that I still have a chance on Saturday. I may not be as fresh as possible, but I will do my best. We’re just trying to make it a good show for all of you.”

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Djokovic received extensive treatment on his injured shoulder at the end of the second set and was in clear pain as he was treated by the tournament physiotherapist.

He appeared to be taking painkillers to ease the problem, but it was another major problem for the Serb, who also struggled with physical problems during the Shanghai tournament.

Djokovic struggled with hip problems in China and also complained of knee problems, but the shoulder problem he struggled with in Saudi Arabia was of greater concern.

The 24-time Grand Slam winning legend took a break from tennis after her surprise exit from the US Open. A quick match for Serbia in the Davis Cup was his only action since being beaten by Australia’s Alexei Popyrin in New York on the last day of August.

Djokovic is expected to be back on court on Saturday in Saudi Arabia as he takes part in the Six Kings Slam play-off for third and fourth place.

Still, he might not be playing this week if it weren’t for the huge entry fees, and we now wait to see if he will play in the Paris Masters event later this month.

Djokovic’s run to the Shanghai final boosted his hopes of qualifying for the ATP Finals in Turin and he may now be hoping for a few weeks away from tournament play before playing in the final of the men’s tennis season in Italy.

Read more: Top ten player reveals he turned down big money offer to play in Saudi Arabia