Vacherot: It s an honor to play against Djokovic

"The first thing I want to say is that this experience was great when facing Djokovic. I learned a lot from him, including from this match. As for myself, I still have a lot to work on, " Vacherot said after the match on Center Court at the Qizhong Forest complex on October 11. "It's crazy what just happened. I don't know what words to use anymore ".

Winning against Djokovic 6-3, 6-4 helped Vacherot become the lowest-ranked player in history to reach the Masters 1000 final. The Monaco player also secured a position in the top 100 next week. Currently, Vacherot's temporary rank is 58 in the world.

"I had 100 minutes filled with happiness, even though not many people wanted me to win ", Vacherot added. "It's only natural that Novak is loved here, he also won the tournament four times. I was a bit shocked when I heard his introduction when I entered the field. I had an unbelievable experience. I will enjoy this victory and then think about the finals ".

Vacherot's career mainly took place at the Challenger level. He had to play the qualifying round of the Shanghai Masters thanks to his reserve spot. Reaching the final will certainly bring the 26-year-old tennis player $598,000, more than his total prize money from the beginning of his career.

"One thing I learned growing up is to always keep my feet on the ground, " Vacherot shared. "Thank you to my family, relatives and everyone who has helped me, who have laid a small brick to build the path I have walked. They taught me how to fight against difficulties on the field and in life. That is why I am here. " Djokovic did not want the media to focus on him and refused to answer interview questions related to his physical condition, whether that was the reason he lost the match. From the end of the first set, Nole suffered from lower back pain and lost his position in the match due to limitations in movement and hitting the ball.

"He deserved to win ", Djokovic commented. "This match is Valentin's. I congratulated him, saying that his spirit and attitude were great, as was his playing style. Today, the better player won ".