Valentin Vacherot stunned the tennis world at the Shanghai Masters. Ranked 204th, the Monegasque entered the qualifying draw as an alternate! He became a man on the mission and bested nine rivals en route to the trophy.
Thus, Valentin became the lowest-ranked Masters 1000 champion, writing one of the most beautiful tennis stories. In the semi-final, he toppled Novak Djokovic 6-3, 6-4 in an hour and 42 minutes.
Speaking about the win against the greatest player of all time, Vacherot described it as a deeply emotional and unforgettable moment that defines his career.
“È stato così un grande onore giocare almeno una volta con te. Non ti ritirare!” Non avevo colto queste parole rivolte da Vasherot a Djokovic. Il monegasco che non esulta per la vittoria più incredibile della sua carriera. Sono ammirato.pic.twitter.com/Qcowo6B4h0
— Dario Puppo (@DarioPuppo) October 11, 2025
Sharing the court with the 24-time Major winner in the latter stage of a notable event was already an achievement. However, emerging victorious in style turned it into a once-in-a-lifetime memory.
Djokovic defeated four rivals and became the oldest Masters 1000 semi-finalist. However, he gave everything in brutal conditions, having nothing left in the tank against a qualifier.
Valentin outplayed the legend behind the first and second serve. He got broken once and delivered three breaks from six chances to emerge at the top and produce a stunner.
Novak clinched a break in the first game of the match. However, Vacherot kept his composure and took charge in the rest of the duel to outplay the four-time champion and remain on the title course.
Novak Djokovic & Valentin Vacherot, Shanghai 2025© Stream screenshot
Valentin came from a set down and beat his cousin, Arthur Rinderknech to lift a trophy and complete an incredible fortnight. As was expected, the Monegasque received a wild card for the Paris Masters.
He scored a quick victory over Jiri Lehecka, extending his great run and arranging another duel against Rinderknech in the second round.
"I'm speechless. Victory over Novak brought a huge amount of emotion. Just stepping onto the court with the most decorated player of all time was incredible. Being able to compete against him and win is something I will never forget," Valentin Vacherot said.
