Valentin Vacherot produces one of the most incredible shots of Australian Open 2026.
The Monegasque tennis player amazed the crowd at Melbourne Park with an incredible, crazy, return that went against all the laws of physics during his third, round match against Ben Shelton.
The moment became one of the most incredible shots of the Australian Open 2026. Fans instantly took notice of the player from Monaco.
The highlight came early in the first set, when he unleashed a jaw-dropping curling “boomerang” forehand.
From an almost impossible angle, the ball whipped around the net post and dropped neatly inside the court, sending the crowd into a frenzy and instantly earning buzz online as a leading candidate for shot of the tournament.
Likewise, the clip that went viral has helped to increase the spotlight on his ATP rankings and his rising presence on the ATP Tour.
Similarly, the highly shareable moment also helped raise the buzz about his ATP rankings and his increasing exposure on the ATP Tour. It highlighted his rising confidence on the big stage.
However, despite the magical rally, he went on to lose in straight sets. Ben Shelton’s power and reliability were the factors that made the difference in the match. Even so, the result failed to overshadow the moment.
The Monaco to reach an ATP Masters 1000 spotlight still walked away with global recognition. The highlight became bigger than the score line. It strengthened belief in his long-term tennis career.
In the end, the rally was super spectacular and very much added to the already remarkable story of Benjamin’s half brother’s Australian Open journey. His creativity ensured his name would be remembered beyond the result.
The moment fueled hopes of reaching his first Masters and winning an ATP title.
Valentin Vacherot Parents’s Inspiring love story
Josse and Nadine Vacherot have been strong pillars behind their son’s journey as a professional tennis player.
Similarly, their advice also helped him learn discipline, humility, and focus from a young age.
Nadine, who teaches tennis at a club, also talked about how important it is to have emotional balance and mental strength.
Also, their love story shows real teamwork and strength. They worked together to make a loving home where their kids could naturally grow and develop their skills. Instead of trying to get attention, the family always chose to live by their values.
In addition, they prefer to stay out of the spotlight. Still, their long-standing connection to tennis in Monaco has provided steady support during key moments of his career, including his ATP Tour debut at the Monte-Carlo Masters.
Ultimately, it is the teachings and principles implanted by his parents that still lead him. Their impact directs his decisions in the game as well as in the life, and they are the main source of his achievements.
Valentin Vacherot Raised With 3 Siblings as Half-Brother Benjamin Balleret Guides His Career
27-year-old, Valentin grew up with his three brothers and sisters in a lovely family setting. His early life included skiing before fully committing to tennis. This helped develop coordination and athletic balance.
Similarly, his siblings have mostly stayed out of the public spotlight. They are not involved in professional sports or media careers. Their support remained personal and private.
Meanwhile, his older half-brother and coach Benjamin Balleret played a major role in his development.
The former professional tennis player has coached him since 2022. Their partnership strengthened match preparation and mindset.
Similarly, the connection with his half brother also gave him a lot of support during higher level competition.
It was a major factor that he was able to make it to ATP Masters 1000 events. Their relationship is still an important part of his tennis career.
Moreover, his other siblings include brother Kelvine Balleret and sister Peggy Vacherot. Extended family ties include cousins Arthur Rinderknech and aunt Virginie Paquet. The tennis family often keeps in touch via a family WhatsApp group.
Rinderknech said,
“Our family WhatsApp group is buzzing a lot the past few days,”
In the end, it was the backing of the Vacherot family that nurtured the qualities of resilience and ambition.
Being raised in a household centered around tennis gave a great base. Their support is still leading the Monegasque player.
In Case You Didn’t Know
- Valentin missed seven months of competition between 2024 and 2025 because of a right shoulder injury.
- The athlete turned professional after completing his college tennis career in the United States.
- The Monaco-based competitor began his athletic journey in skiing before choosing tennis.
- The tennis star is in a relationship with Emily Snyder, an American sports enthusiast based in Monaco
- Emily often travels with him and supports him at tournaments, and they first became public as a couple on social media in 2023.
