Alcaraz out of Paris Masters, Zverev battles through
Carlos Alcaraz slipped to a shock defeat on his return from injury on Tuesday at the Paris Masters while Alexander Zverev needed three sets to see off Marton Fucsovics. Spanish world number two Alcaraz, who was making his return to the court following injuries to his lower back and left foot, had been given a bye in the first round but had no answer to Russian qualifier Roman Safiullin who eased through 6-3, 6-4. "He didn't surprise me at all because I knew that he has been playing a great level these last few months, beating big guys, reaching finals," said a disconsolate Alcarez. "I knew that he was going to play a high level." Much credit must go to Safiullin, who was relentless in getting over the line for a career-boosting win in what was his first meeting with the Spaniard. The 26-year-old held his nerve under pressure from the Wimbledon champion to serve out for the win, despite facing several deuce points in the final game. "Even if he's not in the best shape it's tough to beat him," said Safiullin. "So, I'm really happy that I made it." The German 10th seed Zverev also had his difficulties, having to come back from a set down to beat Hungarian Fucsovics 4-6, 7-5, 6-4 in the round of 64 at Bercy Arena. "It was just one or two points [that made the difference]," said Zverev. "He was playing incredibly well and tactically I think he was unbelievable. "His slice was effective as I did not know what to do on this surface here. It was a very difficult match, and I am happy to be through. I found my level and I am happy with that." Hometown favourite Gael Monfils was knocked out in the first round by Argentinian world number 21 Francisco Cerundolo in three sets. The 11th-seeded Hubert Hurkacz saw off Sebastian Korda 6-3, 6-7 [6/8], 6-3 to book his place in the second round alongside Felix Auger-Aliassime, who toppled Jan-Lennard Struff in two sets. And the Russian fifth seed Andrey Rublev completed the day's play with a quickfire 6-4, 6-3 victory over Japanese qualifier Yoshihito Nishioka. (AFP)