Norrie Fails to Build on Alcaraz Upset as Vacherot Dominates in Paris

British number two Cameron Norrie was unable to maintain his momentum from a career-defining win over world number one Carlos Alcaraz, as he fell in straight sets to Valentin Vacherot at the Paris Masters.

The 30-year-old Brit, coming off what he described as “the biggest win of my career”, struggled to find his rhythm and consistency against the confident Monegasque player, ultimately losing 7–6 (7–4), 6–4 in a tightly contested encounter.

Vacherot’s Dream Run Continues After Breakthrough in Shanghai

For Vacherot, the win marks yet another major milestone in a breakthrough season. The 26-year-old, who recently clinched his first ATP title at the Shanghai Masters after defeating his cousin Arthur Rinderknech, showed remarkable poise and composure on the Paris court.

“It was a really big performance,” said Vacherot after the match. “I’m happy with how I handled the hot moments. Everything is clicking now — it’s the work of many years, pure work.”

Having been ranked world number 204 as recently as September, Vacherot has soared into the top 40, establishing himself as one of the ATP Tour’s fastest-rising talents. He now boasts an impressive record of 10 wins in 12 matches against top-50 opponents this season.

Norrie Struggles to Find His Edge Despite Strong Start

Norrie began the match in promising fashion, dropping just two points on serve during the opening set. However, he failed to convert a crucial break point opportunity and ultimately fell short in the tiebreak as Vacherot’s power game prevailed.

The Briton’s frustration grew in the second set when he attempted to rally support from the French crowd — only to be met with boos inside the Accor Arena. Despite fighting hard, Norrie missed two more break chances at 2–2 before surrendering his serve in the following game.

With momentum firmly on his side, Vacherot showcased his trademark composure under pressure. He saved another two break points to move 5–3 ahead, then celebrated by cupping his hand to his ear and acknowledging the crowd with a raised racquet. Moments later, he sealed victory on his second match point after Norrie netted a forehand.

From Challenger Player to Masters Quarter-Finalist

Vacherot’s victory in Paris continues a stunning run of form that’s turning heads across the ATP circuit. Just weeks after lifting his maiden title in Shanghai, the Monegasque player has now reached the quarter-finals of back-to-back Masters 1000 events, a rare achievement for a player outside the world’s top 30.

He will next face either Felix Auger-Aliassime or Daniel Altmaier for a place in the semi-finals — a matchup that could further solidify his remarkable ascent in men’s tennis.

Analysis: Vacherot Proving His Shanghai Title Was No Fluke

According to BBC Sport tennis reporter Jonathan Jurejko, Vacherot’s continued success in Paris dispels any doubts about the legitimacy of his Shanghai triumph.

“Those who still thought Vacherot’s win in Shanghai was somehow a fluke must now be reassessing their view,” Jurejko wrote. “His confidence and clarity under pressure are setting him apart.”

The 6ft 4in right-hander’s heavy serve and fearless forehand have become defining weapons, but analysts also point to his improved baseline movement and shot selection. His victory over Norrie makes him just the second player ranked outside the top 20 to record 10 consecutive Masters-level match wins, following Argentina’s David Nalbandian in 2007.

Norrie’s Mixed Season Ends on a Low Note

For Norrie, the defeat marks a disappointing end to what has been an inconsistent year on tour. Despite flashes of brilliance — including the headline-grabbing win over Alcaraz — he has struggled to sustain form deep into tournaments.

Still, his performance in Paris offers positives heading into the 2026 ATP season, where he’ll aim to regain his place among the top 20 and re-establish himself as a consistent threat on the biggest stages.