Andy Murray defeated Roberto Bautista Agut 7-6 (1), 6-1 to win the Shanghai Masters Sunday, his second title in as many weeks and the sixth overall in what is shaping up to be his most successful season on tour.
After triumphing at Wimbledon and the Rio de Janeiro Olympics, Murray hasn't let up this autumn: He hasn't lost a set in his last 10 matches in Asia, winning back-to-back titles at the China Open and in Shanghai. His win yesterday was also his 65th of the season (best on the tour) and gave him his sixth trophy (tying a career best).
With Federer injured, Nadal still trying to regain his confidence and Djokovic dealing with the effects of a mentally exhausting season, Murray has established himself as the clear dominant force in the game. The only thing left is the top ranking, and he's closing in fast on that, too. It may be difficult to catch Djokovic this year, but Murray is already looking ahead to next season. "I just want to try and finish this year as strong as I can. Maybe give myself a chance at doing it the early part of next year," he said after his semifinal win over Gilles Simon on Saturday. Elsewhere, Former No. 1 Caroline Wozniacki defeated Kristina Mladenovic 6-1, 6-7 (4), 6-2 to win the Hong Kong Open yesterday, her second title in Asia in the past month.
