Novak Djokovic refused to answer questions about his injury and future schedule following a surprise straight-sets defeat to qualifier Valentin Vacherot at the Shanghai Masters.
The tennis icon, who appeared physically restricted throughout the match, called for the physio several times to treat what looked to be a hip problem but declined to elaborate on the issue afterward.
Djokovic’s 6-3, 6-4 loss to the world No 204 marked one of the biggest shocks of the tournament and one of the most surprising defeats of his late career.
Vacherot, a little-known 25-year-old from Monaco who came through qualifying, produced the performance of his life to beat the four-time Shanghai champion and reach his first Masters 1000 final.
When asked about his fitness and whether he would still compete in the upcoming Six Kings Slam exhibition event in Saudi Arabia later this month, Djokovic refused to comment.
The 38-year-old is due to appear at the high-profile exhibition, which takes place on September 15, 16, and 18, featuring several of the sport’s biggest names. However, his latest setback has thrown those plans into doubt.
Pressed on whether he would still make the trip to Riyadh, Djokovic instead turned the focus to his opponent.
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Novak Djokovic refused to answer questions about his injury and future schedule following a surprise straight-sets defeat to qualifier Valentin Vacherot at the Shanghai Masters
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“I want to congratulate Valentin for reaching his first Masters final. Going from qualifications, it’s an amazing story,” he said.
“I told him at the net that he’s had an amazing tournament, but more so his attitude is very good, and his game was amazing as well.
“So it’s all about him. I wish him all the best in the finals, and the better player won today.”
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World No. 204 @val_vacherot defeats Djokovic 6-3 6-4 to become the lowest ranked Masters 1000 finalist EVER!!#RolexShanghaiMasters pic.twitter.com/eY9e4Wn73u
When the questioning returned to his own health, Djokovic cut things short.
“No. Next question, please,” he said, refusing to provide any update on the extent of his injury or his immediate plans.
The exchange left reporters speculating about the severity of the issue, which appeared to affect his movement throughout the match.
Djokovic grimaced repeatedly between points and stretched during changeovers, yet continued to fight through the pain before Vacherot closed out the contest.
Despite the defeat, the 38-year-old shared a warm embrace with the Monegasque player at the net.
The Serbian had spoken positively about Vacherot before the match, revealing that he was already familiar with the qualifier’s talent through their mutual links to the Monte-Carlo Country Club.
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Novak Djokovic was full of praise for Valentin Vacherot after his defeat at the Shanghai Masters
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“I’ve known him for the last couple of years,” Djokovic said earlier in the week.
“Obviously he’s ranked 200-plus before this tournament, but he’s been around. He’s playing for Monaco, which is a great success for him and for the country. Everyone there is excited.
“We have one of the nicest tournaments in the sport in Monaco, so I’m glad for him and for his team. Benjamin Balleret, his coach, is someone I’ve known for many years because I’ve been based in Monaco for around 15 years.
“He’s been improving a lot. We always knew he’s got great potential, with a big serve and a big game. He’s a big guy.”
Vacherot’s victory makes him only the third player ranked outside the top 200 to defeat Djokovic in ATP Tour history.
It also raises questions about the Serb’s physical condition and whether he can remain competitive at the highest level as he nears his 39th birthday.
For now, Djokovic’s silence on his fitness will only add to the intrigue surrounding his next steps. With the Saudi exhibition and the closing stages of the ATP season approaching, his decision in the coming days may provide the clearest signal yet about how long he intends to keep going at the top of the game.