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Novak Djokovic Defies Age with Record-Breaking Paris Masters Victory

Novak Djokovic, the 39-year-old Serbian tennis legend, made history at the Paris Masters by becoming the oldest player ever to win a match in the tournament. He battled past Monaco's Valentin Vacherot with scores of 6-7(5), 7-5, 6-1 in the opening round.

Despite losing the first set in a close tiebreak and falling behind early in the second set after Vacherot broke his serve, Djokovic showed resilience. Both players faced physical challenges—Djokovic received treatment for his right shoulder, while Vacherot had his left ankle wrapped. Djokovic managed to save three break points at 4-4, then secured a crucial break at 6-5 to take the second set.

In the final set, Djokovic dominated, swiftly closing it out 6-1. His next opponent will be Australia's Rinky Hijikata.

Responding to Critics

"For an old guy, not so bad, huh? People think that I am too old, too slow, but somehow I manage to find a way to win this kind of matches, especially ones that go the distance," Djokovic said.

Currently ranked 11th in the Race to Turin, Djokovic is chasing a spot in the ATP Finals scheduled for November 15-22. To keep his hopes alive, he must reach at least the semifinals in Paris. Winning the title would secure his qualification outright. After Paris, there is only one more ATP 250 tournament in Stockholm before the Finals.

2026 US Open Highlights

The article also reflected on the excitement from the 2026 US Open, showcasing powerful moments from the event held at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in New York City. Top players like Spain's Carlos Alcaraz, Belarus' Aryna Sabalenka, and others were featured in memorable action shots from early rounds of the tournament.

  • Men's Singles: Carlos Alcaraz celebrated his first-round victory over Roman Safiullin.
  • Women's Singles: Aryna Sabalenka faced Colombia's Camila Osorio in the opening round.
  • Other notable players: Jessica Pegula, Coco Gauff, Elena Rybakina, and Serena Williams (doubles only).

The US Open showcased intense battles and moments of triumph across both the men’s and women’s draws, marking the last Grand Slam of the calendar year.

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