SHANGHAI — In a refreshing turn of events, Novak Djokovic enjoyed a relatively smooth win at the Shanghai Masters, triumphing over unseeded Zizou Bergs with a score of 6-3, 7-5 on Thursday. This victory propels him into the semifinals, where he will meet Monaco’s qualifier Valentin Vacherot, ranked No. 204.
The 38-year-old Djokovic has faced significant challenges in the sweltering Shanghai weather, having previously been seen vomiting and even requiring medical assistance after collapsing in fatigue during a hard-fought third set against Jaume Munar in the prior round.
Djokovic’s match against Bergs wasn’t without its hiccups; he was momentarily broken while leading 5-4 in the second set. However, he ultimately secured victory on his third match point.
“I should have finished things off at 5-4,” Djokovic remarked. “The conditions have been really tough for all players, and I’ve just been focusing on surviving out there. I’m relieved to have crossed this obstacle.”
This clash marked the first encounter between Djokovic and Bergs.
“I really need to stop idolizing you,” chuckled Bergs with a grin, before sharing a warm embrace with Djokovic at the net.
Meanwhile, Vacherot stunned 10th-seeded Holger Rune with a scoreline of 2-6, 7-6 (4), 6-4, making him the second-lowest-ranked semifinalist in Masters 1000 history over the last 35 years, as recorded by the ATP.
“It’s just incredible,” Vacherot exclaimed during his on-court interview. “I didn’t show up as a qualifier; I came as an alternate and wasn’t even sure I’d be able to participate in the qualifying rounds.”
Vacherot clinched victory when Rune faltered on a return of serve, after which he dropped to his knees on the court, hands covering his face. Rune had been battling leg cramps, affecting his mobility in the deciding set.
