October 12, 2025

In an electrifying match at the Shanghai Masters semi-finals, Monaco's Valentin Vacherot, ranked 204 in the world, caused a massive shock by defeating the tennis giant Novak Djokovic with scores of 6-3, 6-4. The 26-year-old qualifier put on a dazzling performance against the 38-year-old Djokovic, who was struggling with vomiting, leg injuries, and exhaustion under the heavy 31°C heat and high 62% humidity. After the win, a stunned Vacherot said, "I'm trying to pinch myself, is this real? I know not many of you guys wanted me to win. To have Novak on the other side of the court was first of all an invaluable experience for me. I have a hundred feelings right now." This victory makes Vacherot the first player from Monaco to reach an ATP Masters 1000 quarter-final and the lowest-ranked quarter-finalist in the history of the tournament since 2009. He also joins a rare group as only the third qualifier to reach the quarter-finals in Shanghai, following Matthew Ebden in 2011 and Mischa Zverev in 2016. The tennis star has mostly played in the ATP Challenger Circuit but is now making his mark on the big stage. Off the court, Valentin Vacherot receives huge support from his girlfriend, Emily Snyder. Emily lives in Monaco and originally comes from North Carolina. She studied Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication at the University of North Carolina and is currently pursuing her Master’s in Sports Business Management at the International University of Monaco. Emily is a true sports fan who loves attending games and traveling the world. She passionately supports Valentin during his matches, and the couple often shares sweet pictures from their trips, delighting fans. They were recently spotted enjoying their time together at the Miami Open, proving that behind every great athlete is a loving partner cheering loudly. On Sunday, Vacherot will face either his cousin Arthur Rinderknech or tennis star Daniil Medvedev in the thrilling final. Will the surprise continue? Stay tuned as this underdog's dream run lights up the tennis world!

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Tags: Valentin vacherot, Novak djokovic, Shanghai masters, Tennis upset, Atp masters 1000, Emily snyder,