Novak Djokovic kept his Nitto ATP Finals qualification hopes alive at the Rolex Paris Masters by rallying from a set and a break down to defeat Valentin Vacherot 6-7 (5-7) 7-5 6-1. The seven-time Paris champion overcame a mid-match shoulder issue to secure the win. Djokovic, currently 11th in the Race To Turin on 2,940 points, needs at least a semi-final run to have a chance of qualifying for the season-ending ATP Finals in Turin.
He must finish inside the top nine, with Rafael Jodar currently holding the ninth spot on 3,234 points, 294 points ahead of Djokovic. Djokovic, who next faces Australian Rinky Hijikata, admitted he is "not the freshest" but was glad to turn the match around. He noted the slow and bouncy conditions this year compared to last, and praised Vacherot's confidence after winning Basel.
Sky Sports analyst Ryan Harrison highlighted the physical challenge for Djokovic, especially with the shorter Masters 1000 schedule offering fewer rest days.
Source: Sky Sports Champions League · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing