Paris Masters: Carlos Alcaraz eliminated in 3rd Round, fails to capitalize on Djokovic and Sinner’s absence
ATP
We know
what bothers Carlos Alcaraz on a tennis court, but executing it is another
matter. Players like Grigor Dimitrov seem to have figured out the key in recent
times. The Murcian struggles when played against aggressively from the start,
leaving him no breathing room or chance to implement his game. While knowing
the strategy is one thing, applying it is quite another—something Ugo Humbert
did to perfection.
At least in
the first set, where Carlitos looked uncomfortable throughout, making far more
errors than usual, facing a nearly flawless opponent on the other side of the
net. From there, the Frenchman’s pace and level dipped, allowing Alcaraz to
take the second set. However, in the third, Humbert played his best tennis to
bring down the four-time Grand Slam champion 6-1, 3-6, 7-5, advancing to the
2024 Paris Masters quarterfinals.
One of Alcaraz’s worst sets
With an
electrified crowd and extraordinary level of play, Ugo Humbert applied pressure
from the start. So much so that he reached 5-0, and there was concern that
Alcaraz might get bageled. He ultimately saved a game but suffered a solid 1-6
defeat at the hands of the Frenchman.
Read also
Alcaraz wakes up just in time
Alcaraz
didn’t improve at the start of the second set; however, Humbert did slow down,
committing many more unforced errors. This was somewhat predictable, given the
stratospheric level at which he had played in the first set. Encouraged by
this, the world number 3 improved, securing his first break of the match in the
sixth game.
From there,
everything went the Spaniard’s way as he reduced errors and took more risks.
They reached 5-3, with Alcaraz serving to level the match. He didn’t waste the
opportunity and sealed the set 6-3 with a clean service game.
Alcaraz falters under pressure
The third
set was the highest level of tennis, as it was the only set where both players
played exceptionally well simultaneously. The fifth game proved crucial for the
match's outcome, with an extraordinary Alcaraz defending everything and forcing
the Frenchman to err, but Humbert drew on his mental strength to hold his
serve.
They
reached 6-5, maintaining a very close level, but it was in the 12th and final
game that Alcaraz crumbled under the pressure. The crowd grew more animated,
Humbert intensified his play, and on his second match point, he secured
victory. The Spaniard missed an opportunity to gain points on Jannik Sinner in
the world rankings, and the Frenchman will now face Jordan Thompson for a spot
in the 2024 Paris Masters semifinals.
Cristhián AvilaTennis Journalist
Cristhián Ávila is a tennis journalist based in Santiago, Chile, and has been part of the TennisUpToDate team since early 2023. He covers the ATP and WTA Tours as well as all four Grand Slams, producing breaking news, match reports, analysis, and regular liveblogs from major tournaments.
His reporting combines statistical analysis with clear explanation, helping readers understand tactical developments, player form, and broader storylines across the tour. Working fluently in both Spanish and English, Cristhián collaborates with an international editorial team and contributes to comprehensive global coverage. As part of his work, he has conducted interviews and media interactions with leading figures in the sport, including Caroline Wozniacki and John McEnroe.
In his journalism, Cristhián places strong emphasis on careful sourcing, editorial accuracy, and updating articles promptly when new, verified information becomes available. His coverage is grounded in research, context, and direct engagement with professional tennis.
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