Vacherot Reveals Nerve-Wracking Finish to Historic Djokovic Upset
PARIS – In a stunning upset at the Rolex Paris masters on November 3, 2023, French qualifier Luca Vacherot, ranked 204th in the world, defeated Novak Djokovic, the 24-time Grand Slam champion. Vacherot’s victory marks a career-defining moment and sends ripples through the ATP tour as the season nears its close. The win throws the year-end rankings and upcoming ATP finals into sharper focus, demonstrating the unpredictable nature of professional tennis and the emergence of new talent.
Vacherot, reflecting on the match, admitted to a significant physical and emotional challenge during the decisive final game. “My hands were shaking a little,” he confessed, describing the pressure of closing out the match against a player of Djokovic’s caliber. The 38-year-old Djokovic, despite his age, presented a formidable opponent, forcing Vacherot to adapt his strategy throughout the contest.
The 204th-ranked player acknowledged the importance of facing djokovic, lamenting he hadn’t had the possibility to compete against Roger Federer or Rafael Nadal before their retirements. “Just facing Djokovic, even once, is already amazing,” Vacherot stated. He described being initially overwhelmed by Djokovic’s play, mirroring his expectations, but quickly found his rhythm. ”I was relieved to break out as quickly as possible, I think that’s when the match realy started.”
Vacherot detailed a shift in momentum during the second set, where Djokovic increased the pressure and forced him into a more defensive posture. However, he successfully recalibrated his approach, ultimately prevailing despite a tense finish. He noted saving a break point in the final game, a testament to his mental fortitude. “I’m very proud of the way I handled the match mentally,” he said.
The young Frenchman also expressed admiration for Djokovic’s continued excellence. “He is 38 years old,it’s unreal to see what he’s still doing at that age,” Vacherot remarked. He emphasized his ability to compartmentalize during crucial moments, focusing on each point rather than allowing thoughts of the magnitude of the occasion to distract him.
