In a stunning display of self-destruction that left spectators at the Shanghai Masters bewildered, Alexander Bublik suffered a spectacular collapse against Valentin Vacherot, transforming certain victory into bitter defeat.
The Kazakhstani seventh seed appeared to be cruising toward the third round when he held a commanding 6-3, 5-3 lead and even earned a match point. Yet what followed was a dramatic unravelling that saw the world number 18 surrender control of the match in spectacular fashion.
From Dominance to Disaster
Bublik's game completely deserted him at the most crucial moment. The flamboyant shot-maker, known for his unpredictable style, began spraying errors across the Qizhong Forest Sports City Arena as Vacherot mounted an unlikely comeback.
The turning point came when Bublik failed to convert his match point opportunity, allowing the Monte-Carlo resident back into contention. Vacherot capitalised on the momentum shift, breaking back and eventually forcing a deciding set.
Third Set Capitulation
As the match progressed to its conclusion, Bublik's frustration became increasingly evident. The final set saw the seventh seed's challenge fade dramatically as Vacherot secured a memorable 3-6, 7-5, 6-2 victory.
"It was one of those matches where everything turned in an instant," one courtside observer noted. "Bublik had it in his grasp, but Vacherot refused to go away."
What This Means for the Tournament
Bublik's early exit creates another significant upset in the Masters 1000 event, following earlier surprises that have reshaped the draw. For Vacherot, the victory represents one of the most significant of his career and sets up an enticing third-round encounter.
The result continues what has been a breakthrough season for the 25-year-old from Monaco, who now advances to face either 12th-seeded Tommy Paul or qualifier Pavel Kotov in the next stage of the competition.
