Holger Rune’s quarter-final loss to Valentin Vacherot at the Shanghai Masters was marred by a tense moment involving his coach, Stefano Panichi. As Rune struggled with muscle cramps and mounting frustration, cameras caught the Danish player directing harsh words toward Panichi during a changeover, sparking criticism and concern over his on-court behavior.
Rune, who had taken the first set 6-2 before losing the next two 6-7, 4-6, appeared visibly agitated throughout the match. His physical discomfort and inability to maintain rhythm led to multiple exchanges with his box, culminating in what observers described as an insult aimed at Panichi.
Physical struggles and emotional fallout
Rune’s performance was hindered by cramps that required medical attention between games. Despite a strong start, his movement deteriorated in the third set, and he was broken at 3-3. Down 4-5, he had two break points but failed to convert, allowing Vacherot to seal the match.
According to Flashscore, Rune’s frustration boiled over as he engaged in repeated discussions with his team. His mother, Aneke Rune, reportedly left the arena during the third set, adding to the visible tension surrounding the player.
No official comment from Panichi
As of now, neither Panichi nor Rune has publicly addressed the incident. The ATP has not issued any disciplinary statement, and it remains unclear whether the exchange will lead to further consequences.
Rune’s emotional volatility has been noted in past matches, but this episode has drawn particular attention due to the public nature of the insult and the high-profile setting of the Shanghai Masters.
Vacherot’s breakthrough
Valentin Vacherot, ranked outside the top 100, delivered a composed and resilient performance to defeat Rune. The Monegasque player had entered the main draw through qualifiers and eliminated three seeded players en route to the quarter-finals.
Holger Rune in 2025
At the moment ranked no.11, Rune played his last match on the 9th of October when he was defeated by world no.204 Valentin Vacherot 2-6 7-6(4) 6-4 in the quarter in Shanghai (draw).
This year the Dane has achieved a composed 34-21 match record. This year, Holger conquered 1 title in Barcelona. Holger got to the final in Indian Wells.
ATP Shanghai - Valentin Vacherot's projected path
Vacherot in Shanghai, ranking, and results in 2025
Now ranked no.204, Valentin has managed to achieve a compiled 40-22 record in 2025. Valentin is now competing in Shanghai where he overcame the world no.113 Nishesh Basavareddy 6-7(7) 6-4 6-2, the world no.119 Liam Draxl 4-6 7-6(5) 6-4, the world no.82 Laslo Djere 6-3 6-4, the world no.17 Alexander Bublik 3-6 6-3 6-4, the world no.23 Tomas Machac 6-0 3-1 ret., the world no.31 Tallon Griekspoor 4-6 7-6(1) 6-4 and the world no.11 Holger Rune 2-6 7-6(4) 6-4.
Valentin Vacherot will take on the world no.5 Novak Djokovic in the semifinal. In the past, they have never competed against each other until now in top events.
The Monegasque was the runner-up in the Francavilla Challenger.
Holger Rune and Valentin Vacherot clashed against each other only once. The head to head is 1-0 for Vacherot.