PARIS — Carlos Alcaraz is relishing the progress he’s made “mentally” after successfully defending his title at the Paris Masters, triumphing over Ben Shelton with a score of 7-6 (5), 7-5 on Sunday.
The dynamic Spaniard, who sat out for over four months due to a right wrist injury, is on an impressive upswing as he wraps up the season. Since the U.S. Open just two months ago, he’s clinched victory in all three finals he’s contested.
This latest win marks Alcaraz’s fifth title of the year and pushes his remarkable total to 29 ATP titles, including the Japan Open last month.
Second-seeded Alcaraz celebrated by outstretching his arms after sealing the win with a decisive two-handed backhand winner down the line at the indoor Plenitude Arena. He couldn’t help but beam with joy, even shedding a few tears as he secured his ninth Masters title, proudly claiming his first victory in Paris.
“This has been a long time coming for me. I’ve experienced some of my toughest defeats here,” Alcaraz reflected. “At last, I’ve found my rhythm and a winning strategy.”
With the ATP Finals in Turin kicking off next Sunday, he is feeling optimistic about adding that trophy to his collection as well.
“This week has definitely been a step forward for my mental game,” Alcaraz stated. “I’ve focused on positivity and maintaining my composure. I’m thrilled to have kept my emotions in check throughout every match.”
Alcaraz has now bested Shelton in four of their five encounters, the young American having previously outlasted him in a marathon quarterfinal at the U.S. Open that extended until 3:33 a.m. Shelton ultimately reached the final there but fell to Alexander Zverev.
During Sunday’s final, Alcaraz defended against six break points in the first set and quickly responded after losing serve in the second set by breaking Shelton back immediately — quite a feat given that Shelton delivered 12 aces compared to Alcaraz’s six.
“He positions himself well to attack after his serve,” Alcaraz elaborated. “It’s tough to take control against a serve that comes with such speed and power.”
At just 23, Alcaraz didn’t drop a single set in Vienna, but he faced greater challenges in Paris, nearly bowing out in the quarterfinals after saving two match points against Taylor Fritz.
Twenty-four-year-old Shelton was aiming for his eighth career title and a third Masters title, having already clinched victories in Montreal twice.
Recently, he has brought Juan Carlos Ferrero onto his coaching team, following Alcaraz’s split with the same former coach last year.
There appeared to be no hard feelings between the two competitors regarding this change. They shared mutual respect, with Alcaraz even making a point to approach Shelton for a hug and a pat on the back after his victory.
Both athletes showcased their speed and agility, frequently drawing each other to the net for an exhilarating exchange of low, angled volleys.
They pushed each other to the edge of the court, displaying remarkable retrieves, including a nearly split-second save by Shelton during the ninth game.
Shelton held an early advantage, putting Alcaraz under pressure at 0-40 during the fourth game but ultimately saw Alcaraz save four break points and hold serve.
In the second set, despite trailing 4-2, Alcaraz swiftly broke Shelton back after an unforced error from the American, restoring balance in the match.
From that moment forward, Alcaraz seized the momentum decisively.
Shelton expressed his “frustration” over missed opportunities against a formidable opponent like Alcaraz.
“The opportunities are fleeting. If you let one pass, who knows when another will show up?” he lamented. “That also highlights his high caliber and clutch performance.”
This experience, alongside the U.S. Open final defeat to Zverev, is something Shelton believes will ultimately strengthen his game.
“Consistently playing against the best in significant matches allows you to learn immensely,” he remarked. “Heading to Turin with the eight best players in the world, that’s exactly where I aim to be.”
