Alcaraz beats Fritz to send Jodar to ATP Finals

Carlos Alcaraz saved two match points to defeat Taylor Fritz 6-7 (10-12) 7-5 6-3 in the Paris Masters quarter‑finals, a win that secured Spanish compatriot Rafael Jodar a place at the ATP Finals.

Fritz claimed the opening set by winning the tie‑break after both players had chances, then took a break in the second set before Alcaraz rallied, saved two match points and broke his opponent twice to level the match. The 23‑year‑old Spaniard then dominated the deciding set after moving 3-1 ahead, closing out with a powerful forehand. The victory guarantees 20‑year‑old Jodar a spot at the season‑ending event, which will be staged at Turin's Inalpi Arena from 15 to 22 November.

"I tried not to let myself down in those difficult moments - to stay strong mentally," Alcaraz said. "We played incredible tennis, both of us, and I used the energy of the people to give them what they wanted to watch. To entertain them."

Earlier, Tommy Paul’s hopes were ended by a 6-4 4-6 6-3 loss to fellow American Ben Shelton, allowing Frances Tiafoe to reach the finals. The 28‑year‑old American and Jodar will both debut at the event, which features the top eight men’s singles players – Alexander Zverev, Daniil Medvedand, Flavio Cobolli, Arthur Fils, Alcaraz, Shelton, Tiafoe and Jodar.