Carlos Alcaraz saves match points to reach Paris Masters semifinals

Carlos Alcaraz secured his place in the Paris Masters semifinals on Friday, overcoming two match points to defeat Taylor Fritz in the French capital. The 23-year-old staged a recovery to triumph 6-7 (10/12), 7-5, 6-3, marking his first time advancing to the final four of this tournament.

The former world number one is scheduled to face former world number two Casper Ruud on Saturday, following the Norwegian player's 7-6 (7/5), 6-4 victory over Portuguese lucky loser Nuno Borges. Reflecting on the contest, Alcaraz told reporters: “Probably this match is going to be one of the most special matches that I ever played, and I’m going to remember this match for a long time.”

Despite limited match play leading up to the quarterfinals, Alcaraz demonstrated form early by breaking in the fifth game of the opening set with a forehand passing shot. However, his serve faltered shortly after, allowing Fritz to break to love and draw level at 5-5. The American eventually claimed the first set in a tense tie-break after Alcaraz sent a forehand wide.

During the second set, Alcaraz sought to energise the local audience, echoing his previous performances at Roland Garros. Although he struggled against the American's serve, he managed to survive after Fritz secured a break in the seventh game. Alcaraz saved a match point and kept his hopes alive with a backhand slice from beyond the tramlines.

Regarding his shift in momentum, the Spaniard said: “After that game… I started to enjoy it because I just thought I pulled off great shots, great points; I started to smile; I started to bring the energy from the people to the match.” After saving a second match point, Alcaraz broke his opponent twice to force a deciding set.

The final set saw Alcaraz take a 3-1 lead after Fritz pushed a volley wide. Despite facing further break points, Alcaraz maintained control and eventually sealed the victory on his own serve with a powerful forehand that his opponent could only clip with the frame.

In earlier action, Ben Shelton defeated Tommy Paul 6-4, 4-6, 6-3 to progress to the semifinals in an all-American clash. These results eliminated both Paul and Fritz from contention for the ATP Finals, which are scheduled for November 15-22 in Turin.

Consequently, Frances Tiafoe and 20-year-old Rafael Jodar are now confirmed to make their debuts at the season-ending event. Commenting on his friend's qualification, Shelton noted: “Frances has had an outstanding year. One of my best friends, and to see him make Turin for the first time is amazing.”

Shelton is set to play Luca Van Assche in the next round, after the Frenchman ended the qualifying run of Australian Rinky Hijikata in the quarterfinals.