Djokovic Makes History at Paris Masters With Thrilling Comeback Win
Novak Djokovic overcame a set deficit to defeat Valentin Vacherot at the Paris Masters, becoming the oldest match winner in tournament history.
Novak Djokovic proved once again that he remains a formidable force on the tennis tour, overcoming a set deficit to defeat Monaco's Valentin Vacherot 6-7(5), 7-5, 6-1 in the opening round of the Paris Masters on Tuesday. With this hard-fought victory, the 24-time Grand Slam champion became the oldest player in tournament history to win a main-draw match, silencing doubters in dramatic fashion.
"Not bad for an old guy, right?" Djokovic said in his post-match interview. "People think I'm too old and too slow, but somehow I manage to find a way to win matches like this, especially the ones that go the distance. I'm still here, still hanging on and trying to find my best tennis when it matters most."
The Serbian star faced a stern test on the Paris hard courts. After dropping a tight opening set in a tiebreak and falling behind an early break in the second, Djokovic required medical treatment on his right shoulder. He dug deep at 4-4 in the second set, saving three crucial break points that could have allowed his opponent to serve for the match, before breaking serve at 5-6 to force a decider. He then completely dominated the third set to complete the comeback.
Claiming his 51st career match win at the prestigious Paris tournament, Djokovic is currently fighting to secure a spot at the ATP Finals in Turin. To keep his qualification hopes alive, he must reach at least the semifinals this week, while capturing the title would guarantee his ticket. In the second round, he will face Australian Rinky Hijikata, with a potential path that could also feature compatriot Alex de Minaur as the race for Turin intensifies.
