Vacherot won over his cousin Rinderknech in emotional Shanghai Masters 2025 final
Valentin Vacherot claimed his first ATP title at the 2025 Shanghai Masters in a dramatic battle of cousins, overcoming cousin Arthur Rinderknech 4-6, 6-3, 6-3. Ranked 204th in the world, the Monegasque became the lowest-ranked ATP Masters 1,000 champion since the series began in 1990. After the victory, Vacherot signed the camera with a heartfelt tribute, “Grandpa and Grandma would be proud,” a message that captured the deep bond between the two cousins.
The Shanghai final felt like a family affair, a true battle between brothers as cousins Valentin Vacherot and Arthur Rinderknech faced off for Masters 1000 glory. And Vacherot’s triumph turned the tournament into a celebration of family, emotion, and shared history. After clinching the win with a blistering forehand down the line, Vacherot embraced Rinderknech at the net before sprinting to the stands to celebrate with his coach and family. Both players struggled to hold back tears during their on-court interview, emotions spilling over after an epic two-week run.
“I got really, really emotional on the court after the ceremony with being up there with Arthur,” Vacherot admitted. “Some unreal moments for both of us, for our family. Unfortunately, there was one winner. But our family won, and the sport of tennis won as well because the story we just wrote is amazing, in my opinion.”
“I have no idea what is happening right now. I am not even dreaming, it is just crazy,” he added. “There has to be one loser but I think there are two winners today. One family that won and I think for the sport of tennis, the story is unreal.”
Rinderknech, visibly moved, praised his cousin: “Valentin, you gave everything. I am so happy for you. Two cousins are stronger than one.” Throughout the tournament, the duo motivated each other both in person and via family group chats, blending fierce competition with genuine support.
Vacherot had a front-row perspective on Rinderknech’s incredible journey, which included victories over top-ranked stars Daniil Medvedev, Felix Auger-Aliassime, Jiri Lehecka, and Alexander Zverev. Sunday’s final demonstrated just how challenging it is to topple a family member, but also how the spirit of tennis can create unforgettable stories. In the end, the trophy went to Vacherot, but the true winner was the remarkable bond between two cousins who played their hearts out.
Image Credit: Valentin Vacherot’s Official Instagram / @valvacherot
nfl 
mma 
