Novak Djokovic stunned in Shanghai as Valentin Vacherot’s fairytale continues

An out-of-sorts Novak Djokovic tumbled out in Shanghai as Valentin Vacherot claimed a stunning victory to become the lowest-ranked finalist in Masters 1000 history.

Djokovic, bidding for a record-extending 41st Masters title and a first in almost two years this weekend, had medical timeouts in both sets and received treatment on his lower back from the physio.

The 24-time grand slam champion’s physical struggles were ruthlessly exploited by Monegasque qualifier Vacherot, who belied his ranking of 204 in the world to claim a 6-3 6-4 win in an hour and 43 minutes.

Never stop believing