Djokovic battles through Paris Masters opener

Novak Djokovic fought back from a set down to defeat Valentin Vacherot in straight sets at the Paris Masters opener on Tuesday. The 24-time Grand Slam champion won 6-7 (5/7), 7-5, 6-1, marking his return to winning ways at ATP 1000-level tournaments after his fourth-round run at Indian Wells earlier this month. Djokovic also sought revenge on Vacherot, who previously beat him in their only previous meeting and claimed the second title of his career in Shanghai last season.

The Serbian told reporters that Vacherot was confident and one of the best servers in the game. Djokovic's victory keeps alive his chances of earning a spot in the ATP Finals later in November, currently sitting at 11th in the rankings. His main focus, however, remains on winning every match during his return to the Paris Masters.

In his previous appearance at the tournament in 2023, Djokovic claimed the title for the seventh time. Vacherot took an early lead in the first set through an error-strewn tie-break, but Djokovic called for a medical timeout for a shoulder massage, which seemed to disrupt Vacherot's concentration. Djokovic then broke Vacherot's serve on the second break point and seized the advantage in the 12th game of the second set, securing his place in the second round to face Rinkij Hijikata.