Novak Djokovic's three-word message to Valentin Vacherot at the net speaks volumes

Novak Djokovic was defeated by Valentin Vacherot in the Shanghai Masters on Saturday and then showed his class at the end of the match as he told the world No. 204: "You deserve it." The Serbian was forced to contend with a hip injury throughout the match and ultimately wasn't fit enough to overcome the qualifier.

Djokovic turned 38 in May and has been selective about the events he competes at as he attempts to manage his workload throughout the latter stages of his career. He took a short break from competitive tennis after reaching the semi-finals of the US Open in September but returned to action in Shanghai earlier this month as he went in search of his second ATP Tour title of the year.

Djokovic narrowly overcame Marin Cilic in straight sets in his opening match in China, before being taken to three sets by Yannick Hanfmann and Jaume Munar in his next two clashes.

After successfully navigating those two tricky encounters the veteran eased past Zizou Bergs to set up a semi-final showdown with Vacherot.

But Djokovic was hampered by a hip issue from the early stages of the first set as he was forced to take a medical timeout at 3-3. The legendary player then dropped to the floor in pain during the opening game of the second set as his opponent ultimately secured a 6-3, 6-4 victory.

Djokovic would have been forgiven for offering Vacherot a quick handshake and making a swift exit following his tough afternoon on the court.

But the 24-time Grand Slam champion made sure he gave the Monegasque star the recognition he deserved with his three-word message at the net.

Vacherot will now prepare for Sunday's final, where he will meet his cousin Arthur Rinderknech, who defeated Daniil Medvedev in the second semi-final.

"I want to congratulate Valentin for reaching his first Masters final," Djokovic said following his defeat.

"Going from qualification - it's an amazing story. I told him at the net that he's had an amazing tournament, but more so his attitude is very good and his game was amazing as well. So it's all about him. I wish him all the best in the finals, and the better player won today."

Meanwhile, 26-year-old Vacherot explained: "I'm trying to pinch myself, is this real? To have Novak on the other side of the court was first of all an invaluable experience for me. I have a hundred feelings right now."