Djokovic battles through fatigue to reach Shanghai semi-final

Novak Djokovic battled through fatigue to defeat Belgium’s Zizou Bergs 6-3, 7-5 on Thursday and book a Shanghai Masters semi-final against surprise qualifier Valentin Vacherot.

The 38-year-old Serbian, chasing a fifth title in Shanghai, showed signs of exhaustion but relied on his experience to prevail. Djokovic broke in the sixth game of the first set and again at 6-5 in the second to seal victory after Bergs saved two match points. He admitted feeling “a little too passive” at times but praised his opponent’s talent.

In the other quarter-final, Monaco’s world number 204 Vacherot stunned Denmark’s Holger Rune 2-6, 7-6 (7/4), 6-4 to reach his first Masters semi-final. The 26-year-old qualifier fought back after losing the opening set and capitalised on Rune’s unforced errors late in the decider. Watched by his cousin Arthur Rinderknech, Vacherot produced composed tennis under pressure, sealing victory with a strong hold before collapsing in disbelief. He described facing Djokovic as “unreal” and credited persistence for the win.

The semi-final clash pits the 24-time Grand Slam champion against one of the season’s unlikeliest contenders, as Djokovic seeks to continue his dominance while Vacherot looks to extend his fairytale run.

(Source: AFP)