11/06/2026 12:25:00
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11/06 12:24 CST Shelton tops Paul to reach first Paris Masters semi and
advances Tiafoe into ATP Finals
Shelton tops Paul to reach first Paris Masters semi and advances Tiafoe into
ATP Finals
PARIS (AP) --- Ben Shelton won an all-American matchup against Tommy Paul to
reach the Paris Masters semifinals for the first time on Friday.
Shelton, with 19 aces, won 6-4, 4-6, 6-3 under the roof at Plenitude Arena
after converting two of four break points. It was his third win in five
meetings between them.
The third-seeded Shelton ended Paul's hopes of qualifying for the ATP Finals in
Turin this month.
As a result, another American player, Frances Tiafoe, clinched a spot and will
debut at the season-ending tournament.
"Frances has had an outstanding year. One of my best friends, and to see him
make Turin for the first time is amazing," Shelton said. "I'm super happy for
him. We have had a lot of Americans competing for that spot, it's been a big
year from all of us, and it's cool that we are all in the mix."
Only one singles spot remained open at the Finals. The qualifiers so far were
top-ranked Alexander Zverev, Carlos Alcaraz, Shelton, Daniil Medvedev, Flavio
Cobolli and Arthur Fils.
Taylor Fritz could join them if he defeats Alcaraz later Friday. If Fritz
loses, Rafael Jodar will qualify.
Shelton will next play local Luca Van Assche, who took almost three hours to
defeat qualifier Rinky Hijikata 6-4, 6-7 (4), 7-5.
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