Djokovic keeps alive bid to squeeze into ATP Finals

Novak Djokovic secured a crucial win over Valentin Vacherot at the Paris Masters, extending his chances of qualifying for the ATP Finals. Struggling with a set and a break deficit, the 39-year-old Serbian veteran received shoulder treatment during the second set but fought back to claim the match 6-7 (7-5), 7-5, 6-1. Despite not being at his best, Djokovic credited his opponent, who had recently won the Swiss Indoors title, for his mental strength and attributed his victory to turning the tide after a long match.

The result makes Djokovic the oldest man to win at the Paris Masters. Currently sitting at 11th in the standings, Djokovic needs to finish within the top nine to secure his spot at the ATP Finals. His main competitors include Rafael Nadal, Flavio Coboli, Arthur Fils, Frances Tiafoe, and Alex de Minaur, who currently occupy the top spots preceding him.

Djokovic may face Arthur Fery or De Minaur in the third round, with Fery having previously reached an ATP 250 tournament title and defeated Fery in the Winston-Salem Open final. Other players already guaranteed to participate in the Turin championships include Alexander Zverev, Carlos Alcaraz, Ben Shelton, and Daniil Medvedev.