Paul stays in the chase for Turin, Alcaraz advances in W/O

Tommy Paul moved to within two match wins of a place in the year-end finals, with the American dispatching Frenchman Quentin Halys 7-6 (3), 6-4 on Thursday to reach the Paris Masters quarter-finals.

Paul stands four spots out of the eight man ATP Finals field with the showdown starting a week from Sunday in Turin.

The world No. 16 sent over 14 aces, but was pipped by the 16 of his opponent from qualifying who saved four match points in the previous round to beat Frances Tiafoe of the US.

Paul, a rather laid-back character at the best of times, said he’s not particularly considering any year-end possibilities.

“I’m not thinking much about it,” he said after victory in 96 minutes, his 49th of the season.

“I’m not even sure who I play next (Friday quarter-finals). I’ll just take it one day at a time.

“I’ll figure it out and be ready for the match tomorrow (against either third-seeded compatriot Ben Shelton of France’s Arhur Rinderknech.

Second seeed Carlos Alcaraz moved into the last eight without hitting a ball due to the injury retirement of Matteo Berrettini.

The pullout sends the Spaniard into the business end of the event as the Italian withdrew with an arm problem.

Berrettini posted on social media: “Hi all, unfortunately the pain in my arm that I’ve had for a few days won’t allow me to take the court tonight…

“In the next few days I will have all the necessary tests to better understand what this is. Thank you all for the support and affection you show me every day on and off the court. Mat.”  

It marked the second Paris retirement of the season for the 30-year-old, who quit in tears in the Roland Garros quarters against compatriot Matteo Arnaldi.