Novak Djokovic, the defending champion, continued his impressive form by securing his eleventh consecutive victory, defeating Russia’s Karen Khachanov 6-4, 6-1 at the Paris Masters. The match mirrored the 2018 final, and Djokovic’s dominating performance included a quick 3-0 lead in the first set. Despite a brief setback, he capitalized on 17 winners and created eight break point opportunities, converting four for a straightforward victory lasting just under ninety minutes.

Despite Djokovic’s unvaccinated status affecting his tournament participation and world ranking, currently at seventh, his on-court prowess remains unaffected. His last tour-level defeat was at the French Open quarterfinal against Rafael Nadal. Following a break after Wimbledon, Djokovic claimed titles in Tel Aviv and Astana. With key players like Casper Ruud and Rafael Nadal exiting early, Djokovic is now the frontrunner to defend his Paris title and head into the ATP Finals in top form. His quarterfinal opponent is Italy’s Lorenzo Musetti.

In the other bracket, Carlos Alcaraz defeated Grigor Dimitrov 6-1, 6-3, setting up a quarterfinal clash with fellow rising star Holger Rune. Alcaraz, seeking a strong finish in Paris and at the Finals, demonstrated control throughout the match. On the women’s side at the WTA Finals in Fort Worth, Iga Swiatek, the dominant World No. 1, cruised into the semifinals without dropping a match, defeating Caroline Garcia 6-3, 6-2. Swiatek’s only loss to Garcia this year was avenged with a commanding performance.

In the first group, Swiatek awaits the winner between Daria Kasatkina and Garcia for the semifinals. Local favorites Coco Gauff and Jessica Pegula are out of both singles and doubles contention. In the second group, Maria Sakkari’s consecutive wins secure her the top spot, while Aryna Sabalenka and Ons Jabeur vie for the second spot and the chance to face Swiatek in the semifinals.