'Family battle' in the Shanghai Masters semifinals: Two cousins making history together

An unexpected fairy tale is unfolding at the 2025 Shanghai Masters, where two unseeded players—who happen to be cousins—have achieved a remarkable feat by both reaching the semifinals of a Masters 1000 event for the first time ever.

"Family battle" in the Shanghai Masters semifinals

This year's major stage in the Asian season was expected to showcase stars such as Novak Djokovic (Shanghai champion in 2012, 2013, 2015, 2018) and Daniil Medvedev (2019 champion). Yet, the two names capturing all attention in the semifinals are Valentin Vacherot (world No. 204, Monaco) and Arthur Rinderknech (world No. 54, France)—two cousins who have "taken over" the tournament with incredible wins.

Valentin Vacherot: From alternate to sensation

At 25 years old, Valentin Vacherot was nearly unknown in the tennis world. He did not gain direct entry into qualifying and came to the tournament as a reserve. Nevertheless, from this unnoticed position, Vacherot won seven straight matches, including major upsets against Holger Rune (No. 10) and Alexander Bublik (No. 14).

By reaching a Masters 1000 semifinal for the first time, he not only earned the biggest ranking points of his career but also officially rose to world No. 92, breaking into the Top 100 for the first time.

"I wasn’t even sure I would get to play qualifying," Vacherot said after beating Rune. "It all feels like a dream. I’m living the greatest moment of my life."