Novak Djokovic’s journey at the 2025 Shanghai Masters took an unexpected turn in the semi-finals, where he faced a surprising defeat against qualifier Valentin Vacherot, losing in straight sets, 6-3, 6-4. That loss, just two wins away from snagging a record-extending 41st ATP Masters 1000 title, was definitely one of the biggest surprises of the season.

After everything, Djokovic hopped on X to share a touching message, saying, “Shanghai, you will always have my heart. 谢谢你所做的一切 🫶🏼And Valentin Vacherot, this is your moment. You played unbelievably and have made Monaco proud 🇲🇨. Bonne chance pour la finale.” While a lot of people were focused on the surprising outcome, it was Djokovic’s response — kind, generous, and truly respectful — that really struck a chord throughout the tennis

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