It was easier for me on the court today than watching Vacherot play yesterday," admits Rinderknech
Arthur Rinderknech qualified for the semifinals of the Shanghai Masters 1000 by defeating Felix Auger-Aliassime. This tournament also holds special significance as his cousin, Valentin Vacherot, who came through the qualifiers, also reached the semifinals.
Interviewed after his victory, the Frenchman revealed that he didn't stress much during his own match, but rather the day before when his cousin was playing.
In comments reported by Tennis Legend, he stated: "I'm following Valentin, my cousin. It's exceptional for him. I'm just trying to do my job and perform as well as he does.
It's not easy, he sets the bar very high. I was so stressed yesterday watching him play from the box the entire match. I tried not to show anything to avoid giving him that impression of stress.
With Benjamin (Balleret, Vacherot's coach), we were really focused on his match and he pulled through. It was huge. Today, for me, it was just easy not to stress.
I'm not used to watching matches, especially family members', stressing so much, and wanting them to win so badly. Today, it was simpler for me to be on the court.
Rinderknech, Arthur
Auger-Aliassime, Felix
Shanghai