Arthur Rinderknech fell off the stage while listening to his cousin, Valentin Vacherot, give his victory speech at the Shanghai Masters. The Frenchman seemed to run out of steam after taking the first set of their fairytale family final, and world No. 204 Vacherot stormed back to win 4-6 6-3 6-3.
The cousins were both in tears as they paid tribute to one another during their speeches as part of the trophy presentation. But as Vacherot moved on to thank his half-brother and coach, Benjamin, there was a thud. Rinderknech, who was crouching at the back of the stage, fell down, with commentators questioning whether he was cramping.
It was already a historic day in Shanghai, as Vacherot, who came through qualifying, was the lowest-ranked man to contest a Masters 1000 final. The world No. 204 took on his cousin, French star Rinderknech. Ahead of the match, they’d both explained that they had already won, no matter what happened.
But it was Vacherot who pulled off the unthinkable and ended the tournament as the champion. The trophy ceremony was emotional, as both men broke down in tears during Rinderknech’s speech.
Then, it was Vacherot’s turn. The world No. 204 also paid a tearful tribute to his cousin, the runner-up. Rinderknech crouched on the floor and sobbed. But his body soon gave way, and he rolled off the back of the stage.
Vacherot started laughing but took action and called out: “I think we need some help please!”
MORE TO FOLLOW
We’ll be bringing you the very latest updates, pictures and video on this breaking news story.
For the latest news and breaking news visit: express.co.uk/sport/football. Stay up to date with all the big headlines, pictures, analysis, opinion and video on the stories that matter to you.
Follow us on Twitter @dexpress_sport – the official Daily Express & Express.co.uk Twitter account – providing real news in real time.
We’re also on Facebook @dailyexpresssport – offering your must-see news, features, videos and pictures throughout the day to like, comment and share from the Daily Express, Sunday Express and Express.co.uk.
