Shanghai Masters final: World number 204 Valentin Vacherot beats cousin Arthur Rinderknech

The pair had played against each other at junior level and in college at Texas A&M University, but never at professional level.

Rinderknech, 30, converted his first break point of the match in the third game as his opponent made a nervy start.

With legendary 20-time Grand Slam champion Roger Federer watching in the stands, Vacherot regained his composure as the rest of the set went with serve and Rinderknech took it 6-4.

The second set was equally close before a superb backhand down the line gave Vacherot a crucial break to go 5-3 up, before holding to set up a decider.

There was a short break between the second and third sets to allow the players to change their shirts, which were drenched in sweat due to the hot and humid conditions.

The stoppage failed to halt Vacherot’s momentum as he converted the third of three break points with a stunning cross-court backhand in the first game of the final set.

Rinderknech dug in to stay in the match, saving nine of 10 break points in his first three service games, before needing a medical timeout to have treatment on his back.

He was able to resume, but looked to be running on empty as Vacherot closed out the match for a famous victory.