Alcaraz Saves Match Points Against Fritz as Jodar Qualifies for ATP Finals

Carlos Alcaraz saved two match points to defeat Taylor Fritz in the Paris Masters quarter-finals, a result that secured Spanish compatriot Rafael Jodar’s qualification for the ATP Finals.

Alcaraz claimed a 6-7 (10-12), 7-5, 6-3 victory over Fritz, ending the American’s hopes of reaching the season-ending tournament in Turin, Italy.

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Fritz edged a tight opening set, winning the tie-break after both players had opportunities to take it.

He then moved a break ahead in the second set, but Alcaraz rallied to level the match after saving two match points and breaking his opponent twice.

The 23-year-old Spaniard dominated the decider after moving 3-1 ahead before closing out the contest with a powerful forehand.

“I tried not to let myself down in those difficult moments – to stay strong mentally,” said Alcaraz, who will face either Casper Ruud or Nuno Borges in the semi-finals.

“We played incredible tennis, both of us, and I used the energy of the people to give them what they wanted to watch. To entertain them.”

Alcaraz’s victory secured 20-year-old Jodar’s place at the ATP Finals, which will be held at Turin’s Inalpi Arena from November 15 to 22.

Earlier, Tommy Paul’s hopes were dashed after he suffered a 6-4, 4-6, 6-3 defeat to fellow American Ben Shelton, a result that also propelled Frances Tiafoe into the finals.

Tiafoe, 28, and Jodar will both make their debuts at the event, which features the top eight eligible men’s singles players in the world.

The eight qualifiers are Alexander Zverev, Carlos Alcaraz, Ben Shelton, Daniil Medvedev, Flavio Cobolli, Arthur Fils, Frances Tiafoe and Jodar.

Who are Jodar and Tiafoe?

Jodar only turned professional in December 2025, but his debut season has attracted major attention and widespread excitement.

The Madrid-born youngster won three ATP Challenger titles in 2025 before claiming his first ATP Tour title in Marrakech in April 2026.

Jodar, who has been compared to Rafael Nadal, also reached the quarter-finals of this year’s French Open and climbed to a career-high ranking of 11th in the world.

At 6ft 3in, he hits powerful, high-speed shots loaded with topspin from the baseline, designed to force opponents into defensive positions.

His attacking style also means he is willing to take risks on big points and during rallies.

Tiafoe, meanwhile, is a three-time ATP Tour title winner who reached a career-high ranking of 10th in the world in 2023.

He reached the US Open semi-finals in 2022 and 2024, knocking out Nadal en route to the last four in 2022.

He won his biggest title to date in Halle in 2026 and also reached finals in Cincinnati and Acapulco.

The Maryland-born player, nicknamed ‘Big Foe’, is known for his energetic style and passionate celebrations.