Valentin Vacherot defeated Novak Djokovic 6–3, 6–4 in the Shanghai Masters semifinal, marking a historic upset and sharing a heartfelt exchange at the net.
Vacherot Stuns Djokovic in Straight Sets
In one of the most surprising results of the 2025 ATP season, world No. 204 Valentin Vacherot defeated Novak Djokovic 6–3, 6–4 to reach the final of the Shanghai Masters. The 26-year-old qualifier from Monaco became the lowest-ranked player ever to reach an ATP Masters 1000 final, overcoming the 24-time Grand Slam champion in just under two hours.
Djokovic, who had been struggling with a sore hip throughout the match, took medical timeouts in both sets but was unable to match Vacherot’s intensity and precision. The Serbian broke early in the first set, but Vacherot responded with a break of his own and never looked back.
Emotional Exchange at the Net
After the final point, the two players met at the net for a moment that captured the spirit of sportsmanship and mutual respect. Djokovic, visibly impressed by his opponent’s performance, said: “You deserve it. You played unbelievable. Keep it going,” he said.
Vacherot, overwhelmed by the experience of facing one of the sport’s legends, replied: “Such a pleasure to play at least once against you. Don’t retire,” he commented.
The exchange was widely praised by fans and commentators, highlighting the emotional weight of the match and the generational bridge between the two athletes.
A Career-Defining Win for Vacherot
Vacherot’s victory not only secured his place in the final but also marked a turning point in his career. Previously an alternate in qualifying, he has now won eight consecutive matches in Shanghai. His run includes wins over top-50 opponents and culminated in this landmark triumph over Djokovic.
Speaking to ATP Media after the match, Vacherot said: “To beat him, I’m not realizing, so I cannot put any words on it. This is just crazy. Just to be on the other side of the court was an unbelievable experience,” he said.
Djokovic’s Future and Vacherot’s Rise
While Djokovic’s physical condition raised concerns, his graciousness in defeat reaffirmed his status as a respected figure in the sport. Vacherot’s plea for him not to retire echoed the sentiments of many fans who still see Djokovic as a vital part of the tennis landscape.
As Vacherot prepares for the final, possibly against his cousin Arthur Rinderknech, the tennis world watches with anticipation. His performance in Shanghai has already etched his name into the history books.
Novak Djokovic in 2025
At the moment ranked no.5, the Serbian played his last match on the 11th of October when he capitulated to world no.204 Valentin Vacherot 6-3 6-4 in the semifinal in Shanghai (draw).
Currently, during this year Novak achieved an overall 35-11 win-loss record. Novak conquered 1 title in Geneva. Novak reached the final in Miami.
ATP Shanghai - Valentin Vacherot's projected path
Vacherot in Shanghai, ranking, and results in 2025
Currently the world no.204, Valentin has a composed 41-22 win-loss record in 2025. Valentin is currently competing in Shanghai where he managed to beat the world no.113 Nishesh Basavareddy 6-7(7) 6-4 6-2, the world no.119 Liam Draxl 4-6 7-6(5) 6-4, the world no.82 Laslo Djere 6-3 6-4, the world no.17 Alexander Bublik 3-6 6-3 6-4, the world no.23 Tomas Machac 6-0 3-1 ret., the world no.31 Tallon Griekspoor 4-6 7-6(1) 6-4, the world no.11 Holger Rune 2-6 7-6(4) 6-4 and the world no.5 Novak Djokovic 6-3 6-4.
The Monegasque was the runner-up in the Francavilla Challenger.
Novak Djokovic and Valentin Vacherot fought against each other just on 1 occasion. Their current head to head is 1-0 for Vacherot.