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The 2026 Shanghai Masters draws to a close on Sunday as some of the best ATP talent in the world compete for glory in China. And tennis fans will be keeping a close eye on the final podium after last year witnessed an unexpected bit of drama when runner-up Arthur Rinderknech fell off the stage before his relative cried for help.
Rinderknech caused panic at last year’s Shanghai Masters when he suddenly veered off stage following a 4-6, 6-3, 6-3 defeat to cousin Valentin Vacherot. The family feud ended with an upset win for Vacherot, who made it to the third round of this year’s tournament before being ousted by Tommy Paul. Things weren’t as bad as first feared, however, as it became clear Rinderknech was merely suffering from cramp at the climax of a fatiguing competition and deciding match. Commentator Nick Lester correctly speculated “cramp maybe crept into Rinderknech’s body” in front of the watching tennis world.
Vacherot, 27, appeared slow to react at first and seemingly struggled to process what he was seeing. However, he then leapt into action and called out: “I think we need some help please!”
It was only seconds before both finalists found themselves in floods of tears at Qizhong Forest Sports City Arena. Both winner Vacherot and runner-up Rinderknech paid touching tributes to one another, with the latter saying: “Two cousins are better than one.”
Rinderknech, who also collapsed in the sweltering conditions at last year's Cincinnati Open, was clearly struggling with as he edged towards the back of the court stage and crouched prior to his fall. Organisers swiftly found him a chair to sit on so he could listen to the rest of Vacherot’s magnanimous words more easily.
The Monegasque took turns to thank his girlfriend, as well as his half-brother and coach, Benjamin. Having entered the tournament at No. 204 in the world, Vacherot became the lowest-ranked player to win a Masters 1000 tournament.
The two cousins later teamed up to reach the doubles final at Indian Wells this year. However, they ended up settling for silver after a straight-sets defeat to Manuel Guinard and Guido Andreozzi.
Rinderknech was scheduled to compete in the singles of the 2026 Shanghai Open. However, he had to withdraw and was replaced by Aleksandar Kovacevic, who bowed out to Matteo Berrettini in the opening round.
Vacherot’s triumph in Shanghai last year played a leading role in his rise to 14th in the ATP rankings. However, he’ll drop down to 32nd in the world after failing to defend the crown.
Rinderknech is also due to fall in the ATP pecking order after pulling out in Shanghai. He’ll plummet from 33rd down to No. 63 but has said he hopes to be back for the Paris Masters later this autumn.
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