A Comeback for the Ages in Paris
Carlos Alcaraz has described his quarter-final victory over Taylor Fritz at the 2026 Rolex Paris Masters as one of the most special matches of his career. The world No. 3 Spaniard, who entered the tournament riding a seven-match winning streak after claiming the Vienna Open title, found himself in serious danger before mounting a sensational fightback. Fritz, ranked 12th, led by a set and 5-3 in the second, and even held two match points, only for Alcaraz to escape and eventually win 6-7(10), 7-5, 6-3 in two hours and 45 minutes.
Alcaraz credited the Paris crowd as a decisive factor, drawing a comparison to his thrilling victory over Jannik Sinner in the 2025 French Open final. After fighting off the match points, he said he stopped worrying and simply tried to enjoy himself, which allowed him to rediscover his best tennis. He went on to reach the Paris Masters final for the first time and ultimately claimed the title, a maiden triumph at the prestigious French capital event.
Jodar Makes History With Turin Spot
Alcaraz's journey through the draw had enormous consequences beyond his own trophy cabinet. Twenty-year-old Rafael Jodar, who entered the week occupying the last qualification spot in the Race to Turin standings, was at risk of being overtaken. A Fritz victory over Alcaraz would have pushed the American above Jodar in the standings and taken his place at the year-end ATP Finals in Turin.
With Alcaraz winning the title, Jodar's spot was confirmed, and the young Spaniard made history by becoming the first player ever to qualify for the ATP Finals in the same season he debuted on the main ATP Tour. Speaking on the official ATP website, Jodar reflected on a breakthrough 2026 campaign, crediting his never-say-die attitude across tough matches against top opponents. TennisDraw users will be watching Jodar closely as a bracket wildcard heading into Turin.
