Valentin Vacherot's Historic Win Puts Monaco on the Tennis Map
Monaco celebrates Valentin Vacherot's historic Shanghai Masters win, marking a new era in the country's tennis history.
“I have no idea what's happening right now, I'm not in a dream, it's just crazy...”
Monaco Tennis Federation president Melanie-Antoinette de Massy hailed Valentin Vacherot's Shanghai Masters victory as a historic milestone for the principality. The win marked the federation's first-ever Masters 1000 singles title, a testament to Vacherot's remarkable achievement.
Vacherot's fairytale run culminated in a thrilling final against his cousin, Arthur Rinderknech. Despite trailing by a set, Vacherot rallied to win the match, securing his first ATP title. This incredible comeback cemented his place in tennis history as the lowest-ranked player to win an ATP Masters 1000 title.
The victory has catapulted Vacherot to new heights, boosting his ranking from 204 to 40 in the world. De Massy praised Vacherot, saying, “Valentin definitely gave them a dream this weekend.” The Monaco Tennis Federation's efforts to nurture young talent have paid off, with Vacherot's win serving as a shining example.
As a result of his win, Vacherot's career earnings have surged, earning him £824,000, more than double his previous career earnings of £380,000. This life-changing victory has not only brought Vacherot personal satisfaction but also recognition from the Prince of Monaco, Albert II, who congratulated him at a homecoming event.
“It's extraordinary.
“As a sports achievement, winning a Masters 1000 title, the first in singles for our federation. History has been made.”
Valentin Vacherot's stunning Shanghai Masters victory catapulted him from world number 204 to an impressive 40th spot in the ATP rankings, marking a monumental leap in his tennis career.
“It's unreal what just happened,« Vacherot said after his victory in the Chinese city.
“I have no idea what's happening right now, I'm not in a dream, it's just crazy. I'm just so happy with my performance these past two weeks.”
Monaco's tennis program has been thriving, with Valentin Vacherot's Shanghai Masters title adding to the nation's growing reputation in the sport. Prior to Vacherot's win, Monaco had celebrated two Masters 1000 crowns won by Hugo Nys in doubles, showcasing the country's potential in the sport.
Monaco Tennis Federation president Melanie-Antoinette de Massy praised Vacherot's achievement, saying his run in Shanghai capped a “tremendous year” for Monaco's tennis program. De Massy, who flew out to witness the semi-finals, credited fellow Monegasque players with setting the tone for Vacherot's success. “It's a dream for our country,” she said, highlighting the impact of Vacherot's win on Monaco's tennis landscape.
Vacherot's victory has not only brought individual success but also contributed to the growth of tennis in Monaco. His achievement serves as an inspiration to aspiring tennis players in the region, and his success is expected to have a lasting impact on the country's tennis program.
“Valentin keeps saying Hugo and Romain (Arneodo) inspired him. They opened the way, and now he's triumphing in singles.”
Vacherot Praised as a “Remarkable Young Man”
Monaco Tennis Federation president Melanie-Antoinette de Massy praised Valentin Vacherot as a “remarkable young man” who embodies the values of the Monaco tennis program. De Massy, who also presides over the Monte-Carlo Country Club where Vacherot trained as a junior, highlighted Vacherot's humility and dedication to the sport. She noted that Vacherot's speech after the final reflected a tight-knit, family-style setup that blends the national team with up-and-coming juniors.
The moment Valentin Vacherot became the 1st man from Monaco to win a Masters singles title
— The Tennis Letter (@TheTennisLetter) October 12, 2025
From alternate to qualifier to beating Bublik, Rune, & Djokovic… to hugging his own cousin at the very end
One of the best sports stories you’ll ever hear
🇲🇨🥹
pic.twitter.com/OR5kLNqYQY
The Monaco Tennis Federation prioritizes inclusivity, ensuring junior players feel part of the team. “We always try to include the kids in everything,” federation president Melanie-Antoinette de Massy said. Junior players wear the same tracksuits as the Davis Cup team and often share courts and mealtimes with seniors, fostering a sense of camaraderie.
Valentin Vacherot's Shanghai Masters victory was a dream come true for Monaco's young tennis players. “Valentin definitely gave them a dream this weekend,” de Massy said, highlighting the impact of Vacherot's achievement on the next generation of Monegasque tennis stars.
"Celui-là est encore plus spécial" 😍
— AS Monaco 🇲🇨 (@AS_Monaco) October 17, 2025
Vainqueur du Masters 1000 de Shangai il y a quelques jours, le tennisman monégasque Valentin Vacherot s'est vu remettre un maillot par Thiago Scuro, Directeur Général de l'AS Monaco 🤝🇲🇨
Félicitations @val_vacherot 👏 pic.twitter.com/ZMpVnx33Wy
The Prince of Monaco, Albert II, is a keen supporter of the tennis program. He closely followed Vacherot's matches and congratulated him at a homecoming event in Monaco after the final, recognizing the significance of Vacherot's historic win.
“There aren't many times we can say we have an athlete winning major international events. We're extremely proud,” she said.
Monaco's tennis achievements are impressive considering its small size and population. With a population of around 40,000 and an area of about two square kilometers, Monaco is “punching above its weight” in tennis, according to Melanie-Antoinette de Massy. The men's team is currently ranked 44th in the Davis Cup among over 160 nations.
“For a country this small, that's a remarkable achievement. I hope this is just the beginning.”
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