World number three Carlos Alcaraz prepares for a high stakes Paris Masters final rematch against Ben Shelton.
Spanish tennis star Carlos Alcaraz has set up a highly anticipated final showdown against Ben Shelton at the Paris Masters tournament. The encounter marks a dramatic rematch of their epic five set battle at the US Open earlier this season.
Alcaraz advanced to his first Paris showpiece on Saturday with a clinical straight sets victory over Casper Ruud. Meanwhile, American player Shelton secured his spot in the final by overcoming Frenchman Luca van Assche in a hard fought three set comeback.
Both players will collide in the French capital on Sunday, with Alcaraz seeking revenge for his previous defeat in New York, according to information published by BBC.
Carlos Alcaraz injury comeback and recent form
Alcaraz has been steadily returning to his scintillating best after spending four months on the sidelines dealing with a wrist injury. Despite missing a large portion of the season, he has reached six tour level finals in 2026, matching the consistency of top rivals.
The Spaniard enters the championship match on an impressive eight match winning streak, having recently triumphed in Vienna. Against Ruud in the semi-finals, Alcaraz demonstrated supreme all court dominance by winning 86 percent of points on his first serve.
Ben Shelton historic run at Paris Masters
Shelton arrives in the final full of confidence during a career best season that has yielded 45 victories on the tour. By defeating Luca van Assche 5-7, 6-3, 6-4, the 24-year-old became the first American men's singles finalist at the event since 2017.
The big serving American recently added former Alcaraz coach Juan Carlos Ferrero to his team. Their previous meeting at Flushing Meadows ended at 03:34 local time after a thrilling five set contest that handed Shelton his first career win over a top three opponent.
Tactical breakdown of the Paris final
Alcaraz acknowledged the magnitude of the upcoming battle, describing his opponent as one of the toughest challenges in professional tennis today. The Spanish competitor relies on heavy forehands and exceptional court coverage to dismantle defensive opponents.
Shelton brings a powerful serve and aggressive baseline game, which troubled Alcaraz during their late night US Open thriller. Fans can expect a blockbuster contest as two of the sport's biggest young stars battle for the prestigious ATP Masters 1000 title.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is playing in the Paris Masters final?
Carlos Alcaraz will face Ben Shelton in the championship match of the Paris Masters tournament.
When did Carlos Alcaraz and Ben Shelton last play each other?
They last played in an epic five set quarter-final at the US Open in September, which was won by Ben Shelton.
How did Carlos Alcaraz reach the Paris Masters final?
Carlos Alcaraz reached the final by securing an efficient 6-4, 6-4 victory over Casper Ruud in the semi-finals.
Who is Ben Shelton's coach?
Ben Shelton recently appointed Juan Carlos Ferrero, who is the former coach of Carlos Alcaraz, to his coaching team.
