ATP champion with four 2025 titles stunned by world number 204 in Shanghai upset

Headline: Major Upsets at Shanghai Masters: Top Tennis Stars Bow Out Early

The Shanghai Masters witnessed a series of surprising exits, as some of the biggest names in tennis were eliminated. Ben Shelton was among the first to leave, losing to David Goffin with a score of 2-6, 4-6 in his comeback match following an injury at the US Open. Following suit, American Frances Tiafoe faced a disappointing defeat against Yannick Hanfmann, marking his fifth consecutive loss.

Casper Ruud and Taylor Fritz Face Tough Challenges

Seeded players, including Casper Ruud and Flavio Cobolli, were also knocked out, adding to the day’s upsets. Taylor Fritz, world number four, narrowly avoided joining them, managing a tight victory against Fabian Marozsan in a third-set tiebreaker.

Alexander Bublik’s Unexpected Defeat to Valentin Vacherot

Arguably the most surprising outcome involved Alexander Bublik, a top 20 player with four titles in 2025. He succumbed to Valentin Vacherot, ranked outside the top 200. Facing Monegasque qualifier Vacherot in round two, Bublik initially led by taking the first set 6-3. However, Vacherot staged a remarkable comeback, winning the match 3-6, 6-3, 6-4. This marked Vacherot’s first victory against a top-30 player.

ATP Title Race: Carlos Alcaraz in the Lead

This defeat leaves Bublik, who recently captured the Hangzhou title, facing challenges at major tournaments despite his success in ATP 250 events. With losses in Beijing and Shanghai, the Kazakh player’s future at these high-profile competitions is uncertain.

ATP Finals Qualification: A Tough Road Ahead for Bublik

Following his win in Hangzhou, Alexander Bublik seemed on track for his first ATP Finals appearance. However, according to Sky Sports expert Naomi Broady, recent back-to-back losses have dimmed his prospects. Bublik now faces a daunting task, needing nearly 1,000 points to catch Lorenzo Musetti, who holds the final qualification spot.

Despite the setback, Bublik’s 2025 season still holds potential. He is set to compete as the number-seven seed at the Vienna Open on indoor hard courts—an opportunity for him to secure his fifth ATP title of the season. The tournament commences on October 20.