Final analysis of ATP Shanghai 2025: a very "familiar" duel that has already made history
Monegasque and French, both cousins, will face each other in an anomalous and unprecedented Masters 1000 final to date.
The final of the Shanghai Masters 1000 could only bring us surprises. With the unexpected injuries of Alcaraz (who withdrew before the tournament began) and Sinner (in the third round against Griekspoor), the scenario seemed to suggest a less typical winner, if Djokovic, Medvedev, Zverev, and company could not win it. And so it has happened.
A regular on the Challenger circuit, such as Valentin Vacherot, who had only won one match in the ATP Tour, has reached a Masters 1000 final in an epic way for many reasons. Beyond defeating big names like the 24-time Grand Slam winner, Novak Djokovic, he has become the player with the lowest ranking in history (no. 204) to reach such a prestigious final.
On the other hand, Arthur Rinderknech already knows what it's like to compete at the highest level in the ATP, starting the tournament as the world number 54. Despite that, his best ranking has never been enough to crack the seedings, but at least he has some experience in these types of competitions. In 2025, the Frenchman had achieved 20 ATP victories prior to Shanghai.
- Two different profiles but united by the same blood
The two most famous cousins on the ATP circuit do not have a very similar style, but it was their tenacity and perseverance that led them to the final. Vacherot has a very powerful serve and a very incisive forehand from the baseline. Due to his great stature, it is challenging to surprise him with high shots.
However, Rinderknech is a slightly less powerful player but also aggressive. He has been making a lot of first serves and playing with a wide range: at times, he serves and volleys, has a precise volley, and showcases great sliced shots. All of this is complemented by a strong backhand.
- The keys
As the saying goes, the one who makes fewer errors will win the match and the trophy. The percentage of first serves will be a very important factor to determine, where Vacherot has an advantage due to his explosive serve, although the Frenchman is also serving well. Valentin will try to seek winners by utilizing his power from the baseline.
Meanwhile, long rallies could benefit Rinderknech, thanks to the technique that sets him apart from the Monegasque, trying to hit drop shots and lobs that make him run more. Playing at the net could be an option but it's always riskier.
It's a historic match where, as the Frenchman said: “There will be two winners anyway”. A feat hard to replicate but one that also enriches and adds excitement to a sport where there is usually a domination by giants, rarely accompanied by an unexpected protagonist. In this case, there are two.
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