Valentin Vacherot Claims Victory Over Cousin at Shanghai Masters

Valentin Vacherot achieved a remarkable milestone in his tennis career by defeating his cousin Arthur Rinderknech 4-6, 6-3, 6-3 to win the Shanghai Masters on October 15, 2023. This victory marks Vacherot’s first title, and he becomes the lowest-ranked player in ATP Masters 1000 history to win a tournament, coming in at 204th in the world rankings. Additionally, he is the first player from the Principality of Monaco to secure this prestigious title.

Vacherot’s victory is underscored by an impressive journey through the tournament, where he faced formidable opponents. In the semifinals, he stunned Novak Djokovic, a 24-time Grand Slam champion, setting the stage for a final showdown against Rinderknech. The latter had also showcased his own talent by defeating four-time major finalist Daniil Medvedev, the 2021 US Open champion, to reach the final.

Throughout the match, Vacherot demonstrated remarkable resilience and skill. In the decisive third set, he executed a serving masterclass, achieving three consecutive love holds and winning 15 straight points before finally conceding a point in the eighth game due to an unforced error. As Rinderknech fought to stay in the match, he saved one match point while serving at 15-40 down. However, Vacherot sealed his victory with a powerful forehand winner down the line, sending him into disbelief.

After the match, Vacherot held his face in his hands, processing the moment before embracing his cousin at the net. He then rushed to his team box to share a heartfelt hug with his coach, Benjamin Balleret, who is also his half-brother. Balleret, a former tennis player himself, had his own notable moment in the sport when he faced the great Roger Federer in the early rounds of the Monte Carlo Masters in 2006.

The atmosphere in Shanghai was charged, with Federer present in the crowd as Rinderknech took the first set with an ace. In the final match, Vacherot secured an early break in the third set, but Rinderknech managed to regroup, taking a medical timeout to address issues with his back and shoulder. Despite these challenges, Vacherot maintained his momentum throughout the match.

This victory not only signifies a turning point in Vacherot’s career but also highlights the competitive spirit within the tennis community, particularly between family members. The match was their first encounter on the professional tour, with Rinderknech having won their previous meeting at a futures tournament in 2018.

Valentin Vacherot’s triumph at the Shanghai Masters stands as an inspiring achievement in the world of tennis, illustrating the unpredictable nature of the sport and the potential for emerging players to make their mark on the international stage.