Carlos Alcaraz reached the quarter-finals of the Rolex Paris Masters without playing a match after his scheduled opponent, Matteo Berrettini, withdrew from their third-round clash.
The pair were due to meet on Thursday evening in the French capital, but Berrettini suffered another injury setback, pulling out with pain in his arm.
Alcaraz, who is chasing his fifth tour-level trophy of the season in Paris, will face Taylor Fritz in the last eight on Friday. He had already beaten home favourite Arthur Fils 6-3 6-4 to reach that stage.
Fritz must beat Alcaraz to qualify for the ATP Finals in Turin. The final place is currently held by Spaniard Rafael Jodar, who lost in the second round earlier this week in Paris.
Alcaraz will be aiming to reach the semi-finals on the indoor hard courts of Paris for the first time in six appearances.
The tournament confirmed the news on social media: “Matteo Berrettini has to withdraw from the Rolex Paris Masters. Wishing you a speedy recovery Matteo. Carlos Alcaraz is qualified for the quarter-finals.”
Berrettini later posted a statement in Italian on Instagram stories. Translated, it read: “Hi all, unfortunately the pain in my arm that I’ve had for a few days won’t allow me to take the court tonight. In the next few days I will have all the necessary tests to better understand what this is. Thank you all for the support and affection you show me every day on and off the court. Mat.”
Paul keeps ATP Finals hopes alive
Tommy Paul beat Frenchman Quentin Halys 7-6 (7-3) 6-4 to keep his ATP Finals hopes alive. He will need to reach at least Sunday’s final to have a realistic chance of finishing in the top nine, with world No 2 Jannik Sinner out for the rest of the season.
Paul will next face compatriot Ben Shelton, who recovered to beat Arthur Rinderknech 3-6 6-4 7-6 (7-5) in a thrilling contest.
France’s hopes rest on Luca Van Assche, who beat Italy’s Lorenzo Musetti 7-5 3-6 6-4. He will meet qualifier Ricky Hijikata, who beat Tomas Martin Etcheverry.
In the other quarter-final, Portugal’s Nuno Borges, who entered the main draw as a lucky loser, takes on Casper Ruud.