In a commanding performance, Alexander Zverev dashed French dreams and sealed his seventh ATP Masters 1000 title by defeating Ugo Humbert 6-2, 6-2 in the Paris Masters final on November 3, 2024. The German world number two, known for his powerful game and resilience, overpowered the home favorite to capture his second Masters 1000 title of the year and reaffirm his status as one of the season’s top contenders.
The match took place in front of an eager Parisian crowd at the Palais Omnisports, hoping to see their local star Humbert make history. However, Zverev swiftly muted the excitement, needing only 37 minutes to close out the first set. His impeccable serve and unrelenting groundstrokes allowed him to break Humbert twice and lose only a single point on his own serve during the first set.
“I knew I had to come out strong and play aggressive tennis,” Zverev said after the match. “Humbert is an incredible player, especially here in Paris with the crowd behind him. I had to quiet the crowd early, and I’m glad I was able to do that.”
Humbert, who reached his first-ever Masters 1000 final with impressive wins, including a third-round triumph over four-time Grand Slam winner Carlos Alcaraz, struggled to find his rhythm against Zverev. Despite his efforts, Humbert managed just five return points throughout the match, unable to mount any serious challenge against Zverev’s flawless serve. While the crowd erupted after Humbert’s early winners, the 26-year-old soon fell behind as Zverev secured a commanding 4-0 lead in the second set.
This latest win marks a significant comeback for Zverev, who suffered a severe ankle injury at Roland Garros two years ago. “To win here in Paris, where I’ve had ups and downs, is huge,” Zverev reflected. “This title is a testament to the hard work my team and I have put in.”
The victory also makes Zverev the second German to capture the Paris title after Boris Becker. It’s his second title of 2024 after winning in Rome, adding to a tour-leading 66 victories this year, pushing him past world number one Jannik Sinner in the season’s win count.
Although disappointed, Humbert was optimistic about his progress. “Playing in my first Masters final here in Paris with my family watching has been incredible,” Humbert said. “This week was a special experience, and it’s why I train every day.”
Zverev’s win in Paris sets him up well for the upcoming ATP Finals in Turin, where he’ll aim for his third title at the season-ending tournament, having previously won in 2018 and 2021. As he continues his stellar season, Zverev’s victory in Paris reinforces his reputation as one of the sport’s fiercest competitors heading into the final stretch of 2024.
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