Tommy Paul
caused a surprise and eliminated
Carlos Alcaraz for the second time in the
Canadian Open by 6-3, 4-6, 6-3.
World No. 1
didn't have an easy path at the National Bank Open Toronto. After advancing
directly to the second round as the first seed, he emerged victorious against
the young star Ben Shelton, showcasing a high level of play.
In the
round of 16, he faced Hubert Hurkacz, where Alcaraz had a slow start that the
Polish player took advantage of to gain the upper hand. However, Alcaraz's
determination allowed him to secure an epic victory in the third-set tie-break.
This time,
he faced Tommy Paul, the same player who eliminated him in the second round of
the Canadian Open last year, a major disappointment for Alcaraz as it was his
first match despite being the second seed.
The
American player secured victories against Argentine players Diego Schwartzman
and Francisco Cerundolo, as well as American Mackenzie MacDonald.
The first
set began with a weak start from Alcaraz, who quickly conceded his service to
give his opponent the advantage. Paul managed to take a two-break lead and led
5-2 on serve. Although 'Carlitos' managed to break back and seemed to be making
a comeback, Paul quickly responded with a break to take the set 6-3.
Paul
capitalized on his serve-and-volley game, forcing Alcaraz to play shorter
points. While the Spaniard was aggressive and hit 10 winners, he made crucial
errors, totaling 7 unforced errors.
However,
the second set started more evenly, with both players holding their service in
closely contested games.
Alcaraz's
frustration was evident in the second set when he threw his racket, a sight
rarely seen in his matches, although he had a previous incident at the Madrid
Open when playing against Emil Ruusuvuori.
In the
sixth game, Alcaraz scored an incredible tweener down the line, igniting the
crowd's excitement. In the following game, Paul struggled, and with renewed
determination, the 2-time Grand Slam champion secured a break to love.
Alcaraz
managed to maintain his advantage and took the set, even though the American
quickly regained his strong form. The Spaniard saved three break points and
ultimately won the set 6-4.
The third
set saw both players performing at their best, but it was Paul who seized the
opportunity, securing an early break in the sixth game.
With this,
Tommy Paul once again spoiled Carlos Alcaraz's Canadian Open, eliminating him
for the second consecutive year and establishing a head-to-head record of 2-1
in his favor.
In the
semifinals, he will play on Saturday against the winner of the match between
Gael Monfils and Jannik Sinner.