Valentin Vacherot won the 2025 Shanghai Masters, defeating Arthur Rinderknech 4–6, 6–3, 6–3 in the final to claim his first ATP title and become the lowest-ranked Masters 1000 champion in history.
A Historic Run from Qualifying to Glory
Valentin Vacherot began his journey in Shanghai ranked No. 204 in the world and entered the tournament through the qualifying rounds. His main-draw campaign started with a comeback win over Alexander Bublik in the Round of 64, followed by a dominant performance against Tomas Machac in the Round of 32, where Machac retired trailing 6–0, 3–1.
In the Round of 16, Vacherot edged past Tallon Griekspoor in a tight three-set battle, 4–6, 7–6, 6–4. He then stunned Holger Rune in the quarterfinals, rallying from a set down to win 2–6, 7–6, 6–4.
Semifinal Shock: Djokovic Falls
The semifinal saw Vacherot face Novak Djokovic, the 24-time Grand Slam champion. Vacherot played fearless tennis, breaking Djokovic’s rhythm and winning 6–3, 6–4. The victory marked one of the biggest upsets of the season.
“I told him at the net that he’s had an amazing tournament,” said Djokovic. “Going from qualifications, it’s an amazing story.”
All-Cousin Final: Vacherot vs Rinderknech
In a rare family showdown, Vacherot met his cousin Arthur Rinderknech in the final. After dropping the first set, Vacherot found his rhythm and took control of the match, winning 4–6, 6–3, 6–3. The emotional moment was shared between the two, with Rinderknech visibly moved during the trophy ceremony.
“I think there are two winners today and just one family that won,” Vacherot said. “I think for the sport of tennis this story’s just unreal.”
From ninth alternate to CHAMPION 🙌
How @valvacherot won the 2025 Shanghai title ❤️🔥#RolexShanghaiMasters pic.twitter.com/3kwot17vuD
— Rolex Shanghai Masters (@SH_RolexMasters) October 12, 2025
Valentin Vacherot in 2025
LLWWLWLWWW Currently ranked no.204, the Monegasque played his last match on the 12th of October when he beat world no.54 Arthur Rinderknech 4-6 6-3 6-3 in the final in Shanghai to win his 1st challenger.
This season the Monegasque has achieved a 42-22 record. This year, the Monegasque lifted the trophy in Shanghai. Valentin got to the final in the Francavilla Challenger.
