Valentin Vacherot Shocks at the Shanghai Masters
In a performance that will be etched in the memory of tennis fans, Valentin Vacherot conquered the Shanghai Masters after defeating his cousin Arthur Rinderknech with a score of 4-6, 6-3, 6-3. This triumph marks the first title of Vacherot’s career, who starred in an impressive streak from the qualifying rounds.
Vacherot, currently ranked 204th, became the champion with the lowest ranking in the history of the ATP Masters 1000. Furthermore, this historic achievement makes him the first tennis player from the small Principality of Monaco to achieve such a distinction.
The semifinal against Novak Djokovic was a high point in the tournament. Vacherot managed to overcome the 24-time Grand Slam champion to secure his place in the final against Rinderknech.
In the decisive set, Vacherot demonstrated his skill in serving, stringing together three consecutive blank games and adding 15 points in a row. Although Rinderknech saved a match point, Vacherot secured the victory with a powerful forehand.
After the triumph, Vacherot expressed his disbelief and celebrated with his team, including his coach Benjamin Balleret, who is also his half-brother and former tennis player.
Rinderknech won their only previous encounter against Vacherot in a futures tournament in 2018.
