Novak Djokovic praised Valentin Vacherot after their Shanghai semifinal, choosing not to discuss his own physical condition following the surprise defeat.
Djokovic Acknowledges Vacherot’s Breakthrough
Novak Djokovic was gracious in defeat after falling to world No. 204 Valentin Vacherot in the Shanghai Masters semifinal. The 6–3, 6–4 loss marked one of the most unexpected results of the season, as Vacherot became the lowest-ranked player ever to reach a Masters 1000 final.
In his post-match comments, Djokovic focused entirely on his opponent’s achievement. “I want to congratulate Valentin for reaching his first Masters final. Going from qualifications, it’s an amazing story,” he said. “I told him at the net that he’s had an amazing tournament, but more so his attitude is very good, and his game was amazing as well. So it’s all about him. I wish him all the best in the finals, and the better player won today,” Djokovic added.
Refusal to Discuss Physical Issues
When asked about his physical condition and whether he had risked continuing the match, Djokovic declined to elaborate. “No. Next question, please,” he responded curtly, signaling his desire to keep the focus on Vacherot’s performance rather than his own struggles.
Throughout the match, Djokovic appeared to be hampered by discomfort, taking medical timeouts and moving with less fluidity than usual. However, he made no excuses and refused to shift attention away from his opponent’s success.
Focus Shifts to Vacherot’s Final
Vacherot’s run from the qualifying rounds to the final has captured the imagination of fans and analysts alike. His victory over Djokovic was not only a personal milestone but also a moment of inspiration for lower-ranked players across the tour.
Djokovic’s decision to highlight Vacherot’s journey rather than dwell on his own condition underscored the sportsmanship that has defined much of his career. Whether or not he competes in the upcoming Six Kings Slam in Saudi Arabia remains uncertain, but for now, the spotlight belongs to the rising star from Monaco.
Novak Djokovic in 2025
Ranked no.5, Djokovic played his last match on the 11th of October when he surrendered to world no.204 Valentin Vacherot 6-3 6-4
in the semifinal in Shanghai (draw).Presently, during this year Novak has managed to achieve a 35-11 match record. Novak conquered 1 title in Geneva. Djokovic got to the final in Miami.
ATP Shanghai - Valentin Vacherot's projected path
Vacherot in Shanghai, ranking, and results in 2025
At the moment ranked no.204, Valentin has achieved a compiled 41-22 match record in 2025. Vacherot is currently playing in Shanghai where he bested 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.
Valentin got to the final in the Francavilla Challenger.
Novak Djokovic and Valentin Vacherot faced off only on 1 occasion. Their head to head is 1-0 for Vacherot.