Vacherot’s Dream Run: Stuns Rune to Claim Shanghai SF Spot
The Monegasque qualifier is set to face either Djokovic or Bergs in the semi-finals.
October 09, 2025
Hector Retamal/AFP via Getty Images
Valentin Vacherot achieves a monumental win over Holger Rune in Shanghai.
By Andy West
Valentin Vacherot delivered yet another spectacular chapter in his 2025 Rolex Shanghai Masters journey on Thursday, triumphing over 10th seed Holger Rune with an electrifying 2-6, 7-6(4), 6-4 quarter-final victory at the prestigious ATP Masters 1000 event.
Despite a rocky start, the World No. 204 showcased remarkable resilience, battling back in the second set and overpowering an injured Rune in the final set. Vacherot’s victory marks a significant milestone, making him the second-lowest-ranked player to reach the semi-finals in Masters 1000 history since 1990. This thrilling match, lasting two hours and 59 minutes, also secured Vacherot a debut entry into the Top 100 of the PIF ATP Rankings as he jumps 112 spots to No. 92.
Keep this name in mind 🌟
World No. 204 @val_vacherot takes down Rune to advance to the @SH_RolexMasters semi-finals. #RolexShanghaiMasters pic.twitter.com/oTVxHiaNpM
— ATP Tour (@atptour) October 9, 2025
“I came here as an alternate, not a qualifier, and I wasn’t even certain I’d play in the qualifying rounds,” Vacherot expressed. “This is surreal. The previous victory already meant so much, but this one takes it to another level.”
“It was challenging to avoid thinking about breaking into the Top 100 on match point. I tried to keep my focus off the rankings throughout the tournament. I heard that winning this match would secure my place in the Top 100, but this feels absolutely incredible. I can’t wait for the semi-final; I’m just thrilled and truly living the dream.”
In the final set, Vacherot exhibited superior physicality over Rune, who called the trainer twice for treatment on his right thigh. Despite Rune’s valiant effort to maintain his aggressive playing style, Vacherot remained composed, saving two break points in the tenth game before sealing the match on his second match point, clinching the most significant win of his career.
So far in Shanghai, Vacherot has made a remarkable habit of recovering from a set down, achieving this feat in five out of his seven matches, including two during the qualifying rounds. He will now aim for a spot in his first tour-level final against either legendary four-time champion Novak Djokovic or Zizou Bergs in the semi-finals.
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