Shanghai  - Novak Djokovic couldn't be more pleased after reversing his 2007 run of year-end bad luck by qualifying a year later for the semi-finals of the Masters Cup.

The world number three Serb, who cemented his place with a three-set victory Tuesday over Nikolay Davydenko, goes into his last red group match against Jo-Wilfried Tsonga relaxed and calm.

His current attitude is a major contrast to a year ago when he lost all three of his matches and headed home, but he found quick revenge with a breakthrough Grand Slam title at the Australian Open two months later.

"Every match is important, so I will try hard to win against Tsonga even though we both have not much to lose," the 21-year-old said. "I've already qualified, and he has no chance of qualifying.

"Result-wise it's not really important, but every match is crucial here."

Djokovic said that his humbling Shanghai debut in 2007 has served him well at this edition.

"Last year wasn't that much fun for me," he admitted. "I didn't win a single set, but I gained from that experience.

"It's different this year because I'm coming here as a Grand Slam winner and more mature player, stronger mentally and physically on the court."

Djokovic could still do with some late-season success after winning the last of his three 2008 titles in May at the Rome Masters. (dpa)