Vacherot dethrones a physically weakened Djokovic

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He's here to stay. Valentin Vacherot created one of the biggest surprises of the 2025 ATP Shanghai by defeating Novak Djokovic with a score of 6-3 and 6-4 in 1 hour and 43 minutes of play. Although the Serbian gave his all on the court, physical problems in his hip area sealed his fate, all against an opponent who didn't forgive any mistakes.

Although the Monegasque couldn't avoid feeling a bit small due to nerves at the start, it took just one game for him to turn the match around and bring it back to an even footing against a Nole who succumbed to the pressure. Somewhat hesitant in his movements, the Serbian had several moments of stretching in the area around his left thigh, where he had a bandage, or in his hip.

Precisely in that area, he received a massage on the court from the physio, but the solution didn't seem to materialize for a frustrated Djokovic. Upset at not being able to hit a comfortable backhand, Nole hit a ball against the wall, perhaps knowing that he couldn't continue with the match, although he wanted to give himself a chance.

- Djokovic suffers hip problems

Even with discomfort on his serve, the limp intensified at times, with Djokovic extremely affected. Across the net, Valentin showed boldness to create a gap with his opponent, exploiting a Nole struggling to rotate his body due to those hip pains. 

With thoughts of retirement looming, the 38-year-old player sought to take advantage of the break after losing the first set to once again receive a massage in an attempt to alleviate that persistent pain. Giving it his all, Djokovic fought hard to hang in there, enduring with every ball in his search for winning shots.

Each game was a breather for a Novak who gradually caught his breath. The match heated up at times, with the Serbian even flashing a mischievous smile to celebrate an exchange full of spectacle. Despite this, Vacherot didn't ease off, and finally, the break came with Djokovic's double fault.

Strong from his serve, closing off any hope for the Serbian, Valentin sealed the final blow to achieve what at certain moments seemed impossible. The Monegasque outplayed Novak in two sets to reach the final of the 2025 ATP Shanghai, his first Masters 1000 final of his career.

This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Vacherot destrona a un Djokovic muy mermado físicamente