Novak Djokovic paid a special tribute to Roger Federer after his old rival turned up to watch his Shanghai Masters final.

The world No. 4 suffered a straight-set defeat to Jannik Sinner in front of a star-studded crowd, with Carlos Alcaraz and Juan Carlos Ferrero also in attendance.

Djokovic had been back playing in Shanghai for the first time since 2019 when Federer was also in the draw. And he admitted he had a heartfelt wish involving his former foe.

Federer has been in attendance at the Shanghai Masters since Friday. The retired Swiss star is an 'icon athlete' at the tournament and has enjoyed some matches court-side over the weekend.

So it was no surprise to see him sitting in the second row at the baseline for the championship match between Djokovic and Sinner. The 20-time Grand Slam champion was in good company - he sat between Alcaraz and Alcaraz's coach, fellow retired star Ferrero.

Their attendance caught both players' eyes and Djokovic made sure to give his old rival a shoutout in his runner-up speech. "Also, it’s nice to see Roger," he smiled as the crowd erupted into cheers.

But the 37-year-old admitted he would rather see Federer somewhere else in the stadium.

"I'm not used to seeing you on the stands I wish you were here on the court playing with us but it's probably the first time that I’m playing in front of you so I had an added pressure today but no it’s great, thanks for being here."

Djokovic quickly turned his attention to one of his current rivals - Alcaraz - and the Spaniard's coach. He added: "Carlos as well, Juan Carlos as well. Thank you for coming out and being part of this match."

After lifting his seventh title of the season, Sinner then acknowledged the familiar faces in the crowd. " There are three legends and I played against one legend so I see legends everywhere. I just try to keep up," he laughed.

The newly-crowned champion also had some kind words for Djokovic after beating him 7-6(4) 6-3. " You’re doing an incredible job," he told the 24-time Major winner.

"I wish you all the best not only for this season but trying to stay healthy throughout also the next season and hopefully to see you as long as possible here on big, big stages."