Vacherot top 10?

After his title in Shanghai, we all said, well, back to reality now against Fritz in Basel, and then...

And then Val went toe-to-toe with the world No. 4 for three sets, no less. So I think we can now expect to see the “new” Vacherot here. When I picture this matchup, I first think of Val’s relentlessness, which I find incredible, and which could well push Jiri Lehecka to his limits. Because I know Jiri doesn’t like the relentlessness of guys who send back his heavy shots well. And not only does Val move well to “grind” as much as possible, but he’s also capable of making plenty of transitions forward, all backed up by a big serve. Honestly, that’s high-level stuff when you think about it. That said, I still feel Jiri’s average level is higher. The Czech has lost very little this season. To trouble him, you have to neutralize him and make him move. In indoor conditions he can be formidable, but I do wonder about his real physical shape at the end of the season. Because he pulled the same thing again last week, taking a thrashing after playing a final. Shit, we’re indoors, you’re top 20, you’re prepared to play big five-set matches, and you can’t hold up... Maybe there’s something I don’t know, but it’s not the first time he’s done that. And on the other side, of course I’ve got a bit of a soft spot, like you I think, for Val who’s doing justice to his wild card. Let’s not forget he’s French before he’s Monegasque, and he’ll have unconditional support here. I think it’s worth taking a shot on his side..