Paris Masters: Alcaraz Advances to Final, Set to Face Ben Shelton

Carlos Alcaraz, the 23‑year‑old Spaniard, moved into the Paris Masters final after a straight‑sets win over Norway’s Casper Ruud on November 8. The match, lasting just 86 minutes, ended 6‑4 6‑4, with Alcaraz seizing a crucial break in each set and never looking back.

Alcaraz’s serve proved nearly untouchable, netting 78 % of first‑serve points and an outstanding 86 % on the second serve. He also unleashed seven forehand winners, a testament to his aggressive baseline play. This achievement marks his seventh distinct Masters 1000 final appearance and the 11th championship match he’s contested at this tier, leaving only the Canadian and Shanghai finals pending.

In post‑match remarks, Alcaraz said he was “delighted to be in the final” and will “train hard” for the next opponent. He specifically referenced Ben Shelton, recalling a previous “grueling” duel and emphasizing the need to perform better on big stages.

Shelton, who recently upset Alcaraz at the US Open, will now meet him in Paris. Their overall meetings total four, with Alcaraz holding a 3‑1 advantage.