Image Source: ESPN
Ben Shelton produced another dramatic performance at the Paris Masters, fighting back from a set down to defeat Arthur Rinderknech and reach the tournament’s quarterfinals. The American prevailed 3-6, 6-4, 7-6 (5) on Thursday, securing his season-best 43rd victory and keeping his impressive late-season momentum alive.
The win sets up an all-American quarterfinal against No. 12 seed Tommy Paul. Their meeting will be the fifth of their careers, with the rivalry currently level at two wins apiece. It will also be their first matchup since 2024, adding another layer of anticipation to an already compelling contest.
Ben Shelton Survives Thriller to Reach Paris Masters Quarterfinal
Shelton faced a difficult challenge against Rinderknech, who used his powerful serve and aggressive baseline play to take the opening set 6-3. Rather than allowing the match to slip away, Shelton responded with greater intensity and improved control in the second set.
He secured the crucial break needed to level the match at one set apiece before delivering a tense performance in the deciding tiebreak. Shelton ultimately held his nerve to win 7-6 (5), completing a comeback that showcased his athleticism, resilience and ability to perform under pressure.
The result was particularly significant because it gave Shelton his 43rd win of the season, the best total of his career so far. The US Open runner-up is also among the six players who have already qualified for the Nov. 15-22 ATP Finals in Turin.
All-American Showdown With Tommy Paul Awaits
Shelton will now face Paul in a matchup between two of the United States’ leading men’s tennis players. Both competitors are known for their athletic movement, aggressive returns and willingness to take risks from the baseline.
“It’s been a long time since we’ve been on the court, but I’m looking forward to it,” Shelton said, according to ESPN and the Associated Press. “He’s in great form right now. A great player, a great friend.”
Shelton also expressed his support for Paul’s push to qualify for the ATP Finals. Paul remains in contention after defeating Quentin Halys 7-6 (3), 6-4 earlier in the tournament.
“I’ve been rooting for him all year to make a push and make it to Turin,” Shelton said. “It will be fireworks tomorrow.”
The pair’s balanced head-to-head record suggests that little will separate them. Shelton’s explosive serve and forehand will be tested by Paul’s court coverage and consistency, making the quarterfinal one of the most anticipated matches on the Paris Masters schedule.
Taylor Fritz Keeps ATP Finals Hopes Alive
It was a strong day overall for American tennis in Paris. No. 11 seed Taylor Fritz defeated No. 6 seed Arthur Fils 6-3, 6-4, maintaining an outside chance of claiming one of the two remaining places at the ATP Finals.
Fritz delivered a near-perfect serving display. He struck 14 aces, committed no double faults and did not face a single break point. He won 77% of his first-serve points and an exceptional 92% of his second-serve points.
Fritz’s next challenge will be especially demanding: a meeting with second-seeded Carlos Alcaraz. Alcaraz advanced when Matteo Berrettini withdrew from their third-round match because of an arm injury. Berrettini later said on Instagram that he had been experiencing pain for several days, although he did not specify which arm was affected.
Van Assche and Hijikata Complete Dramatic Quarterfinal Lineup
Frenchman Luca Van Assche thrilled the home crowd by defeating Lorenzo Musetti 7-5, 3-6, 6-4 to reach his first Masters quarterfinal. The No. 47-ranked player sealed the win with a neat volley on his first match point.
Van Assche will face qualifier Rinky Hijikata, who continued his surprise run after beating Novak Djokovic in the second round. Hijikata defeated Tomas Etcheverry 2-6, 6-3, 7-5 to advance.
With Shelton, Paul, Fritz and Alcaraz all involved in the remaining rounds, the Paris Masters has developed into a crucial event for American tennis and the ATP Finals race. Shelton’s comeback has placed him at the center of that story, but his next test against Paul could be even more revealing.
FAQs About Ben Shelton at the Paris Masters
Who will Ben Shelton play next?
Ben Shelton will face Tommy Paul in the Paris Masters quarterfinals. It will be their fifth career meeting, with the head-to-head record tied at 2-2.
How did Ben Shelton defeat Arthur Rinderknech?
Shelton came back after losing the first set 6-3. He won the second set 6-4 before taking the deciding tiebreak 7-6 (5).
How many matches has Shelton won this season?
The victory over Rinderknech was Shelton’s season-best 43rd win.
Has Ben Shelton qualified for the ATP Finals?
Yes. Shelton is among the six players already qualified for the ATP Finals, which will be held in Turin from Nov. 15-22.
