Paris R3 Predictions: Shelton Faces Rublev, Zverev Takes on Davidovich Fokina

Excitement is building as the Rolex Paris Masters enters the third round on Thursday. Notable matchups include Ben Shelton against Andrey Rublev and Alejandro Davidovich Fokina facing off against Alexander Zverev.

Ben Shelton vs. Andrey Rublev

In an intriguing matchup, (5) Ben Shelton will take on (12) Andrey Rublev for the second time in their careers. Their only previous encounter took place on an indoor hard court, where Shelton emerged victorious with scores of 7-5, 6-7(3), and 6-4 in the Basel final in 2024.

Both athletes are looking for a significant run this week. Shelton is recovering from a shoulder injury he incurred at the U.S. Open. Currently, his match record since returning stands at 2-2, following his latest win against Flavio Cobolli, 7-6(4), 6-3.

Conversely, Rublev has struggled, entering this match with a record of 0-4 since the U.S. Open. He recently broke his losing streak in Paris, securing victories against Jake Fearnley and Learner Tien. Shelton’s return to form, coupled with his recent performances, positions him as a favorite to advance to the quarterfinals.

Alejandro Davidovich Fokina vs. Alexander Zverev

Another thrilling match will feature (15) Alejandro Davidovich Fokina against (3) Alexander Zverev. Zverev is the defending champion at Paris Masters, while Davidovich Fokina seeks his first ATP title after a recent final loss.

The two players will face each other for the seventh time, with Zverev leading the head-to-head series 5-1. Their competitive history includes three matches since Zverev’s last straight-set victory, with Davidovich Fokina scoring his only win at the 2023 Toronto Masters. The most recent match between them saw Zverev claim victory in a close, three-set encounter at the Madrid Masters.

Despite being a favored contender, Zverev faced a tough match against Camilo Ugo Carabelli, where he secured a narrow win. Davidovich Fokina has shown strong form, but fatigue from recent matches may impact his performance. The outcome will likely hinge on stamina as they battle it out on the hard court.

Match Predictions

• Ben Shelton vs. Andrey Rublev: Shelton is predicted to win in 3 sets.
• Alejandro Davidovich Fokina vs. Alexander Zverev: Zverev is expected to prevail in 3 sets.

As both matches unfold, all eyes will be on the court for this thrilling day of tennis in Paris.