Novak Djokovic overcame a determined Zizou Bergs 6-3, 7-5 on Thursday to secure his place in the Shanghai Masters semi-finals for the 10th time, where he will face world No. 204 Valentin Vacherot.
Despite the straight-sets victory, Djokovic faced a tough challenge from his Belgian opponent, who recorded more winning shots than the four-time champion but was ultimately let down by mistakes.
"First time playing Bergs—he’s a great player with a lot of power in his game," Djokovic said. "I was a bit too defensive. Conditions have been difficult for everyone. Just glad to get through."
Bergs showcased strong resistance in the first set, saving five set points before Djokivoic secured it with an unreturned serve. The second set was more intense, featuring long rallies that left Djokovic visibly exhausted at times.
One standout moment came when Djokovic survived a grueling exchange, repeatedly denying Bergs from winning the point despite multiple net attacks, eventually sealing it to the crowd’s delight. Djokovic clinched victory on his third match point and will now meet Vacherot in what should be a compelling semi-final.
"It's an amazing run for him. Beating some of the best players in the world—really impressive," Djokovic said of his next opponent.
Vacherot delivered a major upset, defeating 10th-seeded Holger Rune 2-6, 7-6 (4), 6-4 to become the second-lowest ranked player to reach an ATP Masters semi-final. The qualifier from Monaco, who spent much of last year injured, will break into the top 100 next week.
"I wasn’t even sure I’d play the qualifiers—I got in as an alternate," Vacherot said. "Returning after six months out isn’t easy. You can't just start winning right away. You have to grind through it."
Vacherot’s remarkable campaign, which includes victories over four seeded players, seemed unlikely early as Rune dominated the first set while the underdog struggled physically. However, the match turned in the second-set tiebreak when Vacherot struck a brilliant backhand winner for a 5-4 lead.
Rune mishit his next shot into the net, and Vacherot seized set point with a forehand winner. The Dane required medical treatment twice in the deciding set, allowing Vacherot to secure a hard-fought win in just under three hours.
"I never expected this," Vacherot said. "Right now, I’m just enjoying the moment."
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