Shelton fights past Paul to reach Paris Masters semis

Paris Masters quarter-finalist Ben Shelton defeated Tommy Paul in three sets on Friday to secure his place in the semi-finals. The American pair exchanged a single break of serve in each set, with Shelton prevailing 6-4, 4-6, 6-3. Shelton, the world number four, becomes the first American to reach the last four of the 1000-level Paris Masters event since John Isner and Jack Sock in 2017.

For Paul, the loss ends his pursuit of his first Masters title and his chances of advancing to the ATP Finals. Frances Tiafoe, who exited in the second round on Wednesday, is now guaranteed a spot in the season finale in Turin from November 15-22. Shelton praised his 28-year-old compatriot, noting it's a remarkable achievement for Tiafoe to play in the final event of the season for the first time.

Paul initially took the lead when serving at 4-5, converting two double faults into set points, but Shelton quickly rebounded, breaking Paul in the first game of the second set. Paul quickly regained the upper hand, winning the next game, but Shelton broke again in the fourth game with a well-placed inside-out forehand. Shelton will face Luca Van Assche in the semi-finals, while Alcaraz will challenge Taylor Fritz for the other semi-final spot. Casper Ruud will conclude the day's action against Nuno Borges.