Valentin Vacherot has turned Shanghai into a landmark for Monaco tennis, reaching a Masters 1000 semifinal from World No. 204 and rewriting what seemed possible for a qualifier on one of the sport’s biggest stages.
A week that changes everything
From alternate to qualifier to semifinalist, Vacherot came back to defeat Holger Rune 2 to 6, 7 to 6, 6 to 4, clinching a live Top 100 debut and becoming the first player representing Monaco to reach an ATP Tour semifinal. The run also makes him the lowest ranked ATP 1000 semifinalist in more than two decades, a surge built on belief and five wins from a set down across qualifying and main draw.
Photo: @atptour | rolexshmasters
Maison Alia on court
Wearing the Maison Alia cap, Vacherot has carried values of dedication and quiet ambition into every round, reflecting a partnership grounded in trust and hard work. Family energy has traveled with him too, from his coach and half brother Benjamin Balleret to cousin Arthur Rinderknech, adding a personal thread to a historic week.
The next mountain
Novak Djokovic awaits after a straight sets win over Zizou Bergs, setting up a clash between a record chaser and the revelation of the tournament. Even Djokovic has highlighted the scale of Vacherot’s breakthrough for Monaco and praised the growth in his game, noting the strength of his serve and the team around him.
Photo: Hector Retamal/AFP via Getty Image
What it means for Monaco
This is a first for the principality at Masters 1000 level and a moment that surpasses previous national landmarks, placing Monaco on the semifinal stage with a player whose path has inspired global attention. The story resonates beyond results, marking resilience after injury and a return that pushes open the door for a new era in Monaco tennis.
Looking ahead
Whatever comes next, Vacherot leaves Shanghai with a new ranking horizon, a worldwide audience, and a blueprint built on composure under pressure. Maison Alia will be there for every step, celebrating a competitor who has turned opportunity into history and momentum into a movement.
Cover Photo: El Diario
