Defending champion Valentin Vacherot has a twin with him this week at the Rolex Shanghai Masters.

In keeping with tournament tradition and to commemorate his stunning title run from qualifying at last year’s event, the Monegasque was presented with a terracotta warrior in his likeness.

The tradition dates back to 2005, when Shanghai hosted the first of four consecutive Tennis Masters Cups.

“We developed this idea with the ATP to honour our champions with something culturally exciting,” said Charles Smith, Managing Director of the Rolex Shanghai Masters. “The terracotta warrior idea came up, and we adapted it for our winning champions.

“So that has become an ongoing tradition and a natural gift that we give to each champion. We keep them here, although a couple of them are going around the world for various winners to enjoy.”

Smith said that Vacherot was chuffed.

“He knew it was coming because obviously he had seen what past champions had received, but it was quite a phenomenal experience,” Smith said. “Like anyone who has a figure made of themselves, it’s like, ‘Wow, this is amazing,’ because they’re big.

“This isn’t a small statue. It’s bigger than he is. And I think for him, it’s probably the first thing he’s ever had that’s been an image of himself done this way.”

Vacherot will open his title defence Saturday against the winner of Marcos Giron and Sebastian Baez. He could face second seed Carlos Alcaraz in the fourth round.