Lorenzo Musetti defeated Alexander Zverev 7-6, 6-2 at the Paris Masters, delivering what he described as “incredible tennis” against the German, who had begun the week at No. 1 in the ATP rankings for the first time in his career after moving ahead of Jannik Sinner.
Musetti said the turning point came in the first-set tiebreak, where he won four important points after falling behind 2-5. He then found his way into the rallies more consistently in the second set and took control of the play. The match lasted 100 minutes.
The Italian had arrived in Paris after winning the Lyon tournament, his first title in four years, and beating Hubert Hurkacz in the opening round. He said using his slice more than usual, particularly on the backhand, helped him exploit the low bounce and set up opportunities to dictate rallies with his forehand. The win was his fourth in six meetings with Zverev.
Flavio Cobolli also received good news, securing qualification for the ATP Finals in Turin despite withdrawing from the Paris tournament. His place was confirmed after Jodar lost. Cobolli celebrated on social media, writing “Notti magiche” as he toasted with his father and brother. He will become the sixth Italian tennis player to compete in the year-end event, although his recovery from the muscle injury that forced him to miss Paris remains to be assessed.
Novak Djokovic will not play in the Finals after losing in the second round in Paris to Australian qualifier Rinky Hijikata. Arthur Fils has qualified, leaving two places still to be decided among Frances Tiafoe, Jodar and Alex de Minaur. Turin has also announced that Andrea Bocelli will perform at the show before the final on Sunday, November 22.
Sources: ANSA Sport.