Novak Djokovic hit back at those who branded him “too old and too slow” as he came back from a set and a break down to beat in-form Valentin Vacherot 6-7(5) 7-5 6- at the Paris Masters.
The win ended the Monegasque’s five-match winning streak following his title triumph in Basel last week, while Djokovic kept his hopes of qualifying for the ATP Finals alive.
First Paris Masters appearance since 2023
This was the Serbian superstar’s first appearance at the Paris Masters since 2023, when he lifted the trophy for the seventh time. It was also his first time playing in the tournament’s new home of the La Defense Arena.
However, the 39-year-old is still feeling the effects of the two-hour-and-35-minute battle and has raised concerns about his freshness ahead of his next match against Rinky Hijikata.
Djokovic admits physical battle
Djokovic admitted that his battle with Vacherot was very physical. The match brought an end to the Monegasque's winning streak, which had built momentum after his title in Basel.
Djokovic’s comeback keeps his ATP Finals qualification hopes alive as he continues his run at the Paris Masters.
