Valentin Vacherot became the lowest-ranked player to win a Masters 1000 title, defeating his cousin Arthur Rinderknech 4-6, 6-3, 6-3 in the Shanghai Masters final. The 26-year-old, ranked 204th in the world, entered the qualifying draw as the second-lowest ranked direct entrant following late injury withdrawals. He is the third qualifier to win a Masters 1000 title in the format's 35-year history and the first Monégasque player to win any ATP title.
Vacherot's run included victories over Novak Djokovic and Holger Rune. His opponent and cousin, Rinderknech, ranked 54th, had convinced Vacherot to play college tennis at Texas A&M. The pair warmed up together on the morning of the final, having inspired each other throughout the tournament.
After losing the first set, Vacherot fought back, breaking serve in the second set with a backhand down-the-line winner. He won five consecutive games to take control, conceding just three points on his serve in the final set. He sealed victory with a forehand passing shot, then shared an emotional hug with Rinderknech at the net.
Vacherot earned $1,124,380 for the win, more than double his career earnings. In his post-match speech, he wrote on the camera lens: 'Grandpa and grandma would be proud.' Rinderknech, who suffered cramps during the ceremony, said in French: 'Two cousins are stronger than one. You won today, congratulations. I love you so much.'
