Zverev Powers Past Humbert to Claim Paris Masters Title

Germany's Alexander Zverev emerged victorious at the Paris Masters on Sunday, showcasing his dominance with a commanding 6-2, 6-2 triumph over home favorite Ugo Humbert. This victory marks Zverev's seventh ATP 1000-level title, adding to his impressive collection of wins in Rome, Madrid, Montreal, and Cincinnati.

Zverev's return to Paris was a triumphant one, following his heartbreaking loss in the French Open final to Carlos Alcaraz in June. Four years prior, he had also fallen short in the 2020 Paris Masters championship match against Daniil Medvedev.

"I knew I had to play like this to win today," said Zverev, who began his victory speech by apologizing to the crowd at Paris' Bercy Arena. "I want to congratulate Ugo on an incredible week, (he's an) incredible player. If you continue like this, you'll be able to lift trophies like this. This is not your last chance, Ugo."

Zverev's victory in Saturday's semi-final propelled him to the world number two ranking, surpassing Spain's Alcaraz. The German will now compete in the ATP Finals in Turin from November 10-17, where he aims to replicate his past successes in 2018 and 2021.

Zverev will enter the event as the player with the most wins this year, as Sunday's victory in the French capital was his 66th in 2024, surpassing world number one Jannik Sinner.

For 26-year-old Humbert, the final was a bittersweet experience. Despite reaching his first Masters final on home soil, he faced a formidable opponent in Zverev. The world number 18 had stunned four-time Grand Slam winner Alcaraz in the last 16, delighting the vocal home crowds.

"I want to congratulate Sascha (Zverev) for the quality of the tennis he has played all this week, and season," said Humbert. "I came as a kid to watch matches here (at the Paris Masters) and it made me want to do what I do, so I'm very happy to have reached the final."

Tags: #tennis, #ATP1000, #ParisMasters, #AlexanderZverev, #UgoHumbert