Argentine tennis player Diego Schwartzman could be considered the marathon man of the 2023 Shanghai Masters, as the former World No.8 battled through yet another three-set match to overcome seventh-ranked Taylor Fritz and reach the round of 16.

The 31-year old recorded a 6-4 3-6 7-6(5) win over his American opponent, saving some of his best tennis for the final set tiebreaker. Due to this victory, the Argentine has now reached his first fourth round at a Masters event in over a year.

Read also

TV Guide: Where to watch 2023 Shanghai Masters live as ATP 1000 action returns

Schwartzman relishing opportunity to face higher-ranked opponents

"I think now I deserve," he said. "Sometimes when they push you up & give you an opportunity to play against the best guys.. I think since Roland Garros my tennis was changing. Every single tournament I was winning at least 1 match… Obviously, this is not my year.

Read also

WTA Ranking Update: Iga Swiatek slashes Aryna Sabalenka's lead in half after China Open victory

"That’s why at the end of the year, to have these kind of tournaments, for me, is great. It’s going to make a difference. Whether I win the next one or not, for me it was very important."

Awaiting Schwartzman in the round of 16 is Chilean Nicolas Jarry, who has been in great form after reaching the quarterfinals of the China Open last week.