Alcaraz fights off Shelton to win 9th Masters title

Carlos Alcaraz claimed the ninth Masters 1000 title of his career on Sunday, coming from a break down in the second set to defeat Ben Shelton 7-6 (5), 7-5 in the final in Paris.

The world No. 3 has now lifted trophies at seven of the nine Masters events, with only Canada and Shanghai missing from his trophy list in the elite series.

Alcaraz took revenge on Shelton after losing to the American two months ago in a US Open quarter-final as he came back after four months out with a right wrist injury.

The 23-year-old with seven Grand Slam titles came good at a venue where his form has always been a question. He stopped Shelton’s big serve – 12 aces – in just under two and a half hours to lift his fifth title of 2026.

“This is something I’ve been chasing for a long time,” the winner said. “I’ve had tough losses in Paris, I never found my best level. I never felt comfortable on the court.”

Alcaraz out-duelled Shelton in a first set lasting 72 minutes, with the pair saving eight break points between them before the set went into a tiebreaker.

Alcaraz took it on his second set point but found himself trailing 4-2 in the second set as his opponent fought back.

But the second seed erased his deficit 4-all and took a 5-4 lead after winning 12 of the previous 14 points.

Alcaraz clinched victory with a second break of Shelton three games later, sending a stretch volley down the line for a match-winner.

“Finally I got my level here and found the right path,” he said. “I’m proud of myself and my team, who are always pushing me forward.

“Today was one of the toughest challenges I’ve faced here. I’m happy I found a way to play my game.

“This one will be really special.”

Alcaraz and Shelton now head to Turin for the start of the eight-man ATP Finals in a week in northern Italy.

Main photo:- Carlos Alcaraz lifts Rolex Paris Masters trophy – his 9th Masters – by ISF Ltd