In one of the biggest upsets in ATP Masters history, Novak Djokovic lost to a qualifier in the Shanghai last four, as Monaco’s Valentin Vacherot produced a remarkable straight-sets victory to reach his first Masters 1000 final.
Vacherot Defeats Djokovic in Stunning Semi-Final Upset
An injury-hit Novak Djokovic suffered a shock defeat against world No. 204 Valentin Vacherot in the Shanghai Masters semi-finals.
Vacherot triumphed 6-3, 6-4, becoming the lowest-ranked ATP Masters 1000 finalist in history.
The 26-year-old qualifier from Monaco will now face his cousin, Arthur Rinderknech, in Sunday’s all-family final.
“I’m trying to pinch myself – is this real?” Vacherot said.
“To have Novak on the other side of the court was first of all an invaluable experience for me. I have a hundred feelings right now.”
Djokovic Battles Through Injury But Falls Short
Djokovic’s physical struggles have been evident throughout the tournament. The former world No. 1, who vomited during earlier rounds due to Shanghai’s heat and humidity, again required multiple medical time-outs during the semi-final.
At one stage, he lay shirtless on court while a physio treated his back. Despite the pain, Djokovic fought bravely, even taking a 4-3 lead in the second set before Vacherot closed out the match by winning three straight games.
After the match, Djokovic showed class in defeat:
“I want to congratulate Valentin for reaching his first Masters final,” he said.
“It’s an amazing story, going from qualifications to the final. His attitude and his game were amazing — the better player won today.”
Valentin Vacherot’s Historic Shanghai Run
Vacherot’s performance this week has rewritten records. By beating Holger Rune in the quarter-finals and Djokovic in the semis, he guaranteed his entry into the top 100 of the ATP rankings for the first time.
- Current Live Ranking: No. 58 (up 146 spots)
- First ATP Masters 1000 Finalist from Monaco
- Lowest-Ranked Masters Finalist Ever
His victory cements one of the most inspirational underdog stories in recent tennis history.
Sunday’s Final: Vacherot vs Rinderknech
The 2025 Shanghai Masters final will see Valentin Vacherot face Arthur Rinderknech, making it a unique family showdown. Both players are unseeded, adding extra intrigue to what’s already a historic occasion.
Tennis fans worldwide will be watching to see if Vacherot can complete his fairytale run with a maiden ATP Masters title.
What This Means for Djokovic
At 38, Novak Djokovic continues to defy expectations, but injuries are becoming a recurring concern. The Serbian star’s quest for another Masters title will have to wait, but his sportsmanship and resilience in Shanghai remain a testament to his champion’s mindset.
FAQ: Djokovic Loses to Qualifier in Shanghai Last Four
1. Who defeated Novak Djokovic in the Shanghai Masters semi-finals?
Qualifier Valentin Vacherot of Monaco defeated Djokovic 6-3, 6-4 in a stunning upset.
2. What is Valentin Vacherot’s world ranking?
Before the tournament, he was ranked No. 204. With his Shanghai run, he has risen to No. 58 in the live ATP rankings.
3. Who will Vacherot face in the Shanghai Masters final?
Vacherot will face his cousin, Arthur Rinderknech, in an all-family final on Sunday.
4. Was Novak Djokovic injured during the match?
Yes. Djokovic struggled with a back injury and required multiple medical time-outs during the semi-final.
5. What did Djokovic say after losing?
Djokovic congratulated Vacherot, calling his journey “an amazing story” and acknowledging that the better player won on the day.
6. What record did Vacherot set with this win?
He became the lowest-ranked ATP Masters 1000 finalist in history, surpassing all previous underdog runs.
Final Thoughts
As Djokovic loses to a qualifier in Shanghai’s last four, tennis fans are witnessing a historic breakthrough. Valentin Vacherot’s rise from world No. 204 to a Masters finalist showcases the sport’s unpredictability and the power of perseverance.
Sunday’s final promises a special chapter in tennis history — one written by two cousins chasing glory on one of the biggest stages in the game.
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