Ben Shelton Defeats Tommy Paul to Reach Paris Masters Semifinals

Posted : 06 November 2026

Ben Shelton booked his place in the semifinals of the Paris Masters after overcoming fellow American Tommy Paul in a hard-fought quarter-final encounter on Friday. The world number four secured a 6-4, 4-6, 6-3 victory to continue his impressive run at the ATP Masters 1000 tournament.

The 24-year-old became the first American since John Isner and eventual champion Jack Sock in 2017 to reach the last four in Paris. The victory also marked his third appearance in a Masters 1000 semifinal, further highlighting his progress among the leading players on the ATP Tour.

Shelton took control of the opening set after Paul struggled with his serve at a crucial moment. Two double faults from the 12th seed handed Shelton opportunities to break, and the third seed capitalised with a powerful forehand return winner to take the set 6-4.

Paul responded immediately in the second set, breaking Shelton in the opening game. The 29-year-old maintained his advantage through the remainder of the set, holding his serve to level the match at one set apiece and force a deciding third set.

The deciding set proved equally competitive, with both players fighting to gain the advantage. Shelton eventually broke through in the fourth game, producing an aggressive inside-out forehand that caught the edge of the sideline to establish a 3-1 lead.

The American maintained his composure and protected his advantage despite a late challenge from Paul while serving for the match. Shelton eventually closed out the contest 6-3, completing the victory and securing his place in the semifinals.

Paul's defeat ended his hopes of winning his first Masters 1000 title and qualifying for the ATP Finals in Turin, scheduled for November 15-22. His exit also confirmed Frances Tiafoe's qualification for the season-ending tournament, marking the first time the 28-year-old will compete among the year's top players.

Shelton expressed his happiness for Tiafoe, describing him as one of his closest friends and praising his performances throughout the season. He said seeing his compatriot achieve his first ATP Finals qualification was particularly special.

Shelton will now face either France's Luca Van Assche or Australian qualifier Rinky Hijikata for a place in Sunday's final. Meanwhile, other quarter-final matches feature Carlos Alcaraz against Taylor Fritz and Casper Ruud taking on Nuno Borges.

Ben Shelton Defeats Tommy Paul to Reach Paris Masters Semifinals

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