Vacherot stuns Rune, Djokovic tops Bergs: Shanghai Masters semis set for epic showdown
Valentin Vacherot stuns tenth seed Holger Rune in a thrilling three-set quarterfinal, while Novak Djokovic battles past Zizou Bergs to set up an intriguing semi-final showdown in Shanghai.
Valentin Vacherot, Shanghai 2025 | © Andy Wong/AP/SIPA
Novak Djokovic and Valentin Vacherot emerged victorious in the thrilling Shanghai Masters 1000 quarterfinals on Thursday, setting up an intriguing semi-final clash as the tournament unfolds in challenging conditions.
Djokovic defeated Zizou Bergs 6-3, 7-5 while the qualifier Vacherot , world No.204, upset tenth seed Holger Rune 2-6, 7-6(4), 6-4 in matches filled with drama, grit, and resilience.
Valentin Vacherot’s victory was a huge upset. The Monegasque qualifier recovered from a difficult first set and persistent physical challenges from Rune, who was visibly hampered by leg cramps in the third set. The Dane, a Rolex Paris Masters winner in 2022 and an Indian Wells runner-up this year, was three points away the win, leading 4-3 in the second set tie-break and losing it 7-4.
Vacherot’s composure in key moments, notably saving two break points late in the third set, propelled him to the win 2-6, 7-6(4), 6-4.
This victory made him the second lowest-ranked player in Masters history to reach the semi-finals and guaranteed a Top 100 ATP ranking debut. Vacherot reflected on his unlikely journey, revealing he arrived at the tournament not even sure he would play qualifiers and called the experience “unbelievable,” describing his progression as living a dream.
Djokovic stayin’ alive
Novak Djokovic, the seasoned 38-year-old Serbian and four-time Shanghai champion, showcased his trademark resilience to overcome a tough challenge from the spirited Belgian Zizou Bergs. Djokovic won 6-3, 7-5 in a contest that tested him physically due to the sweltering Shanghai heat and a lingering leg injury.
Despite moments of physical struggle, Djokovic saved four of five break points faced and demonstrated high-quality defensive play, including a standout point where he repelled multiple overhead and volley attempts to break serve at a critical juncture.
Djokovic admitted he was “just trying to stay alive on the court” amidst tough conditions and appreciated Bergs’ firepower, crediting the Belgian’s fighting spirit.
David vs. Goliath
The Saturday semi-final between Djokovic and Vacherot presents a classic David versus Goliath narrative. Djokovic’s relentless consistency and wealth of experience collide with Vacherot’s remarkable fairy-tale run, marked by impressive wins over several seeded opponents.
Djokovic, who has yet to capture a Masters 1000 title this season, looks to add a record-extending 41st Masters crown and fifth Shanghai title overall. Vacherot’s challenge, fueled by his rising confidence and physical resilience, promises to test the Serbian veteran’s endurance and adaptability in challenging conditions.
