Follow us on Google Discover Novak Djokovic is through to another Masters 1000 semifinal, and that’s not really a surprise considering his history in these events.
Djokovic came through a quarterfinal against Zizou Bergs in pretty comprehensive style as he managed to preserve some energy for the last two matches.
Bergs made a bizarre claim after losing to Djokovic, and it’s fair to say that he was somewhat uncomfortable with the situation that faced him in his latest match.
Valentin Vacherot has shared how he feels about facing Djokovic in the last four, with the qualifier coming through against Holger Rune in the quarters.
A big issue has been highlighted with Djokovic’s latest win, but ahead of his battle with Vacherot, he’s picked the ATP player who he reminds him of.
Photo by HECTOR RETAMAL/AFP via Getty ImagesThe ATP player who reminds Novak Djokovic of Valentin Vacherot
It’s been a class tournament for Vacherot, who has come through some tough opponents to make his first Masters 1000 semifinal and leap into the world’s top 100.
Ahead of their clash, Djokovic has said that Vacherot reminds him of the conqueror of Alexander Zverev and his cousin, Arthur Rinderknech.
The big-serving Frenchman is built very similarly to his relative, and Djokovic has definitely said he can see resemblances between the two players.
He said in his press conference: “I’ve known him for the last couple of years. Obviously he’s ranked before this tournament 200-plus.
“He’s been around. He’s playing for Monaco, which is a really great success, the biggest historical success for Monaco. It’s amazing. So everyone is excited there. We know we have one of the nicest and biggest tournaments in our sport there in Monaco.
“So I’m glad for him, for his team. Benjamin Balleret is someone I’ve known for many years from Monaco, because being based there for 15 years, training at the Monte-Carlo Country Club.
“He’s been improving a lot. We always knew that he’s got a great potential, with a big serve, a big game, he’s a big guy.
“He kind of plays quite similarly to Rinderknech, you know. And I see that they’re quite close. The serve particularly reminds me of Arthur as well. So it’s great to see that chemistry between them, that they’re supporting each other. Arthur was there the whole match. Yeah, historic success for him and, yeah, I’m looking forward to playing him. Hopefully, I can get a win.”
Djokovic on what he’s been struggling with in China
In truth, Djokovic will never have a better chance to win another Masters 1000 event with Jannik Sinner withdrawing against Tallon Griekspoor and Carlos Alcaraz pulling out with a foot injury.
He does concede that he’s struggled with something over in China this time, however, and believes he’s faced a constant battle out on the court in Shanghai.
Djokovic said: “Yeah. Well, it’s no secret I love playing in China. I just mentioned the support of the crowd definitely makes you feel comfortable, gives you wind in your sails. When you’re on the court feeling down, they lift you up. So that’s what’s happening basically every single match, the last couple of matches for me here.
“I’ve been struggling quite a bit with energy levels. And just every opportunity that I get, the crowd feels it, and they stand behind me. And then, you know, I can hear that noise and that really, that energy drives me. I’m enjoying myself. As much as I’m suffering, at the same time I’m enjoying playing in front of them.”
Whether Valentin can complete the ultimate week and win the Shanghai Masters remains to be seen and his match with Djokovic promises to be a cracker.