The Changeover Podcast Val Vacherot: Shanghai Title, Beating Djokovic & Crazy College Stories
Oct 25, 2025
Valentin Vacherot, the 2024 Shanghai Masters champion and professional tennis player, shares his remarkable journey from injury setback to triumphant success. He dives into the psychological strategies that helped him reclaim his confidence and stand strong against top players like Djokovic. Valentin recounts humorous college tales, highlights the importance of teamwork, and reflects on the intense competition in Challenger events. From family dynamics in finals to the camaraderie in college team practices, his stories are both enlightening and entertaining!
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Celebration, Media And Quick Return To Training
- Valentin describes a nonstop celebration and media wave after winning Shanghai, including being welcomed at Monaco clubs and meeting the Prince of Monaco.
- He took three days off then returned to training before leaving for Basel, mixing celebration with preparation.
Injury Forced A Slow Rebuild
- A long injury layoff tested Valentin's faith: six months out and early-season losses nearly crushed his ranking hopes.
- He used progressive challenger results to rebuild confidence and stabilize his ranking before Shanghai.
Mental Targeting Creates Ready Opportunity
- Targeting a specific tournament mentally months ahead can create the focus and readiness to seize a late entry.
- Valentin planned for Shanghai and was emotionally and physically prepared when a last-minute spot appeared.