Djokovic Faces Off Against World No. 204 Vacherot in Thrilling Shanghai Masters Semifinal Showdown
Novak Djokovic Advances to Shanghai Masters Semifinals Amidst Challenging Conditions
Victory at Shanghai Masters for Djokovic
Novak Djokovic secured a place in the semifinals of the Shanghai Masters with a triumph over Zizou Bergs, defeating the unseeded Belgian 6-3, 7-5 on Thursday. Djokovic’s path to victory was less tumultuous in this match compared to his previous rounds, where he battled through Shanghai’s taxing heat and humidity.
Endurance Tested in Sweltering Shanghai
The 38-year-old Djokovic has been pushed to his limits by the challenging conditions at the tournament, experiencing bouts of vomiting and requiring medical assistance during earlier matches. In his previous game, a grueling match against Jaume Munar, Djokovic battled exhaustion after being taken to a deciding set.
Key Moments in the Match Against Bergs
Despite a hiccup when leading 5-4 in the second set, Djokovic maintained composure to eventually convert his third match point. “I should have closed out the match at 5-4,” Djokovic reflected. “Very challenging conditions these days for all the players, and I was just trying to stay alive on the court. I’m glad to overcome this hurdle.”
Upcoming Semifinal Against Qualifier Valentin Vacherot
In the upcoming semifinal, Djokovic is set to face Monaco’s Valentin Vacherot, ranked No. 204. Vacherot made headlines by defeating 10th-seeded Holger Rune 2-6, 7-6 (4), 6-4, earning his place as the second lowest-ranked semifinalist in Masters 1000 events over the past 35 years, according to ATP statistics.
Vacherot’s Remarkable Journey
The 27-year-old Vacherot expressed his astonishment at reaching the semifinals: “This is just unbelievable,” he commented during an on-court interview, highlighting his unexpected journey as he entered the tournament as an alternate rather than a direct qualifier.
Holger Rune struggled to maintain mobility due to leg cramps during the final set, ultimately losing when Vacherot clinched the win after Rune netted a return. Vacherot’s emotional victory was evident as he sank to his knees in disbelief.
