Home / Sports / Unranked Underdog Shocks Tennis World, Wins Prestigious Shanghai Masters
Unranked Underdog Shocks Tennis World, Wins Prestigious Shanghai Masters
12 Oct
Summary
- Valentin Vacherot, ranked 204th, wins first career ATP title
- Defeats cousin Arthur Rinderknech in Shanghai Masters final
- Stuns 24-time Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic in semifinals
On October 12th, 2025, the tennis world witnessed a historic upset as Valentin Vacherot, a 26-year-old player ranked 204th in the world, clinched the prestigious Shanghai Masters title. Vacherot's remarkable journey began in the qualifying rounds and culminated in a thrilling final against his cousin, Arthur Rinderknech.
Vacherot's path to the title was nothing short of extraordinary. In the semifinals, he stunned 24-time Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic, setting up a final showdown with Rinderknech, who had earlier defeated 2021 U.S. Open champion Daniil Medvedev. The final proved to be a closely contested affair, with Vacherot rallying from a set down to secure a 4-6, 6-3, 6-3 victory over his cousin.
Vacherot's serving masterclass in the decisive third set, with three straight love holds and 15 consecutive points, proved to be the difference-maker. Rinderknech fought valiantly to stay in the match, but Vacherot's blistering forehand winners ultimately sealed the victory for the unheralded Monegasque player.
