From tears to collapse on stage: Vacherot and Rinderknech overflowed with emotion in Shanghai

He Shanghai Masters 1000 became one of the most unusual tournaments of 2025 due to its surprising results, the impact of the extreme heat and, without a doubt, the familiar definition between Valentin Vacherot (204th) and Arthur Rinderknech (54th). The cousins ​​reached the final thanks to their impressive performances over two weeks and, at the closing of the contest, They starred in an incredible sequence full of emotion. The details.

After 2h 14min of action, Valentin Vacherot and Arthur Rinderknech approached the net to hug each other, replicating the image they have featured in the last days of the Asian competition. In an edition that presented figures such as Jannik Sinner and Novak Djokovic as great candidates, tennis, as unexpected as it was wonderful, gave us a story of unconditional family unity.

Seeking the inauguration of their honors, the cousins ​​faced each other in the most important match of their careers. The 26-year-old Monegasque ended up winning the fight 4-6, 6-3 and 6-3, concluding a fantastic story in style. However, what came minutes later at the awards ceremony was even more exciting.

“Two cousins ​​are stronger than one”the runner-up started and immediately burst into tears as he addressed his rival directly speaking in French.

Then came Valentin’s deep gratitude: “If I had not entered the University of Texas in 2017 thanks to you, we would not be here today. I dreamed of following you in the Top 100 and now we are both there.”

While the champion thanked, The emotion overwhelmed Rinderknech who, after a few seconds in a chair, collapsed on stage with cramps.. He quickly received medical attention and the ceremony continued to establish itself as one of the most moving of the season.

All the action of the Shanghai Masters 1000 can be followed, live and exclusively, on Disney+ Premium Plan.