"Every match, every point matters": Felix Auger-Aliassime eyes ATP Finals qualification with Paris title on the line

Felix Auger-Aliassime produced a masterclass in composure and precision as he overcame Alexander Bublik 7-6(3), 6-4 in the Paris Masters semi-final. “I tried to stay in there, stay locked in, got the tiebreak done,” Auger-Aliassime said, reflecting on a first set where neither player faced a break point. The Canadian’s calm under pressure and ability to absorb Bublik’s power paved the way for his second Masters 1000 final.

The first set was a display of indoor firepower, with both players serving impeccably. “He’s so efficient… he hits so clean and so efficiently that it’s just tough to do anything,” Auger-Aliassime admitted in Tennis Channel, describing the challenge posed by Bublik’s unpredictable patterns and precise shot-making. Yet Felix’s patience in the tiebreak, winning five of six points after a 2-2 tie, gave him a crucial advantage and set the tone for the rest of the match.

Bublik fought back in the second set, surging to a 2-0 lead. Auger-Aliassime immediately broke back, only for Bublik to storm ahead 4-1. “I was surprised that I was still hanging in there… it doesn’t happen often in indoor tennis that you’re able to come back from that,” Felix said. He then won five consecutive games to close out a comprehensive victory.

This win has significant implications for the Race to Turin. Auger-Aliassime, who had a strong run at this tournament in 2022 reaching the semi-finals, now moves ahead of Lorenzo Musetti for the eighth and final ATP Finals spot. He currently sits on 3,845 points, while Musetti trails with 3,645, meaning a title in Paris could secure Felix’s place at Turin for the first time since 2022.

“You try to stay calm, positive body language, and then try to come back,” Auger-Aliassime explained when asked about his mindset against the tricky Bublik. The Kazakhstani is known for his unpredictable serves, drop shots, and volleys, forcing Felix to remain mentally sharp throughout the match. “You’re a bit on edge because you don’t know if an underarm serve is coming, or a serve-and-volley, or serving drop shot.”

Felix credits his preparation and mental focus for enabling these comebacks. “That’s what you train for, that’s what you get ready for — not just tennis-wise, you know mentally. You try to be a step ahead, know exactly what you’re trying to do, and execute the right shot at the right time,” he said. This careful preparation, combined with his ability to stay positive under pressure, has become a hallmark of his performances in big matches this season.

This semi-final victory puts Auger-Aliassime firmly in control of his ATP Finals destiny. A title in Paris would guarantee him a place in Turin, while Musetti, who was defeated in his opening match against Lorenzo Senego, can only hope for Felix to fall short.

“Every match matters, every point matters,” Auger-Aliassime reflected. His current standing of 3,845 points ahead of Musetti’s 3,645 highlights just how close the battle for the final ATP Finals berth is. The Canadian has also recently participated in the Hellenic Championship and Metz, picking up points while keeping his focus on the ultimate goal: qualifying for Turin.

Auger-Aliassime has a strong history at the Paris Masters, having won the men’s doubles event with Hubert Hurkacz in 2020. “I think my body language wasn’t as good in the first matches, but after the third round I told my team: ‘Okay, I need to step up, be more positive and play better tennis,”

Three-set battles earlier in the tournament also sharpened his skills, preparing him for the semi-final against Bublik. His ability to handle long rallies, control pace, and stay mentally resilient allowed him to transform what could have been a nerve-wracking contest into a masterful performance. “I tried to stay in there, stay locked in… there’s a lot at stake,” he added, emphasizing how crucial mental fortitude has been to his success in Paris.