Vacherot Stuns Rinderknech in Emotional Shanghai Final, Federer Watches History
A remarkable upset unfolded in Shanghai on Sunday, October 12, 2025, as Valentin Vacherot defeated his cousin, Arthur Rinderknech, to claim the Masters 1000 title. The victory, achieved after a grueling 4-6, 6-3, 6-3 match, was made all the more poignant by the presence of Roger Federer in the stands – Vacherot’s lifelong idol.
The dramatic conclusion to the tournament saw Rinderknech overcome with emotion during the awards ceremony, collapsing on stage due to cramps and briefly fainting. A doctor remained by his side as he was assisted to a chair, capping off an already incredible day of competition.
The familial stakes were exceptionally high, with both players having warmed up together before the match and sharing a long embrace afterward. They sat side-by-side awaiting the ceremony, Rinderknech offering a supportive hand on his cousin’s shoulder. Vacherot’s triumph marks a historic moment, as he becomes the first player outside the world’s top 200 to win a Masters 1000 title.
Vacherot’s journey to the championship was nothing short of extraordinary. Entering the tournament as an ‘Alternate’ from the qualifiers, he initially wasn’t even sure he’d have the opportunity to compete. His unexpected victory has yielded over $1.1 million in prize money – more than double his career earnings to date ($594,000). The win will propel him from his starting rank of 204 to number 40 in the world rankings tomorrow, a jump of 160 positions.
Federer’s presence added another layer of significance to the event. According to Vacherot, “It’s incredible what happened and what’s still happening, I couldn’t have imagined it even in my wildest dreams. Today there are two winners and one family, and it’s a shame that there can’t be two winners. I just tried to beat the opponent who was on the other side of the net, trying to put aside the fact that he was my cousin, who I train with and go on holiday with.”
The tournament, notably absent of stars Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner (who withdrew due to cramps), found its emotional core in this unique family rivalry. The awards ceremony was deeply moving, with both players’ mothers visibly touched by the outcome. Rinderknech, displaying remarkable sportsmanship, expressed his joy for his cousin, stating, “Two cousins are stronger than one. I gave everything, I couldn’t do more, but I’m so happy for you. I love you.” Vacherot, in turn, acknowledged his cousin’s support, saying, “Thanks to you, I went to Texas A&M, today we are both in the top 100 and I hope we can stay there for a long time.” He immediately shared a message on social media, writing, “Grandpa and Grandma you must be proud.”
The family’s group chat is expected to be inundated with messages, and a new profile picture reflecting the historic win is likely on the way. This Shanghai final will undoubtedly be remembered as a testament to the power of family, perseverance, and the unpredictable magic of professional tennis.
