See main article: article and 2016 Shanghai Rolex Masters.
| Champ: |  Andy Murray |
| Runner: |  Roberto Bautista Agut |
| Score: | 7−6(7−1), 6−1 |
| Type: | singles doubles |
| Main Name: | Shanghai Masters (tennis) Shanghai Masters |
Andy Murray defeated Roberto Bautista Agut in the final, 7−6(7−1), 6−1 to win the singles tennis title at the 2016 Shanghai Masters. It was his third Shanghai Masters and 13th Masters 1000 title overall.
Novak Djokovic was the defending champion, but lost in the semifinals to Bautista Agut.
The top eight seeds receive a bye into the second round.