Serbian tennis legend Novak Djokovic has created history at the 2026 Paris Masters by breaking a long-standing record held by American tennis great Jimmy Connors. The 24-time Grand Slam champion became the oldest player to win a match in the history of the Paris Masters after defeating Monaco's Valentin Vacherot in a hard-fought first-round encounter.
Djokovic, aged 39 years and 164 days, achieved the milestone on November 3, 2026, at the indoor tournament in Paris. His victory surpassed the previous record held by Connors, who had won a match at the competition at the age of 39 years and 56 days in 1991.
Djokovic fights back to win in three sets
The seventh-time Paris Masters champion had to overcome a difficult challenge against Vacherot, who entered the tournament after winning the Swiss Indoors title in Basel.
Vacherot started strongly and took the opening set 7-6 (5) after a closely contested tie-break. Djokovic struggled to find his rhythm against the Monegasque player's powerful serving and aggressive groundstrokes.
The second set proved to be the turning point. Djokovic faced significant pressure while serving at 4-4, when Vacherot earned three break points that could have allowed him to serve for the match.
The Serbian saved all three opportunities and gradually regained control. He eventually broke Vacherot at 6-5 to win the second set 7-5 and level the match.
Djokovic carried that momentum into the deciding set. He broke his opponent early and took control of the rallies, eventually winning the third set 6-1.
The final score was 6-7 (5), 7-5, 6-1 in Djokovic's favour. The match lasted approximately two hours and 35 minutes.
Surpasses Jimmy Connors' record
The victory placed Djokovic at the top of a special age-related record at the Paris Masters.
Before this match, Jimmy Connors held the distinction of being the oldest player to win a match at the tournament. Connors achieved the record in 1991 at 39 years and 56 days.
Djokovic, at 39 years and 164 days, moved beyond that mark by more than three months.
The achievement adds another milestone to Djokovic's extraordinary career, which has already included numerous records in Grand Slam tournaments, Masters 1000 events and the ATP Tour.
He also extended his record for the most match victories at the Paris Masters to 51.
Djokovic receives medical attention during match
The match was not without physical concerns for the Serbian star.
During the second set, Djokovic requested a medical timeout to receive treatment on his right shoulder. Vacherot also received medical attention for his left ankle during the contest.
Despite the discomfort, Djokovic continued playing and managed to turn the match around.
After the victory, he made a humorous reference to his age, saying, "For an old guy, not so bad, huh?"
He also responded to suggestions that he was becoming too old and slow by pointing out that he continued to find ways to win difficult matches.
ATP Finals qualification hopes remain alive
The victory was also important for Djokovic's attempt to qualify for the 2026 ATP Finals in Turin.
The season-ending tournament traditionally features the top eight singles players in the ATP Race. Djokovic entered the Paris Masters needing a strong performance to improve his position in the qualification standings.
Following his first-round victory, he continued his campaign and kept his hopes of reaching the season-ending championship alive.
He was scheduled to face Australian qualifier Rinky Hijikata in the second round. A potential later meeting with Alex de Minaur could also have significant implications for the ATP Finals qualification race.
Another historic achievement for Djokovic
Djokovic's latest achievement demonstrates his continued ability to compete at the highest level of professional tennis despite being close to his 40th birthday.
The Paris Masters has been one of his most successful tournaments, with seven titles to his name. His latest victory adds another record to that impressive history.
While Connors' record stood for 35 years, Djokovic has now established a new benchmark for longevity at the prestigious indoor event.
His immediate focus will be on progressing through the remaining rounds and strengthening his chances of qualifying for the ATP Finals.
