Paris Masters 2023 Round 3 Preview: Shelton vs. Rublev & Zverev vs. Davidovich Fokina
The Paris Masters is heating up, and Round 3 promises fireworks with two blockbuster clashes: Ben Shelton vs. Andrey Rublev and Alexander Zverev vs. Alejandro Davidovich Fokina. As the final ATP 1000 event of the season, every match carries weight—rankings, momentum, and bragging rights are on the line. Whether you’re a die-hard teis fan or a casual observer, these matchups are must-watch.
In this preview, we’ll break down the form, head-to-head records, and key factors that could decide these battles. From Shelton’s explosive serve to Rublev’s relentless baseline game, and Zverev’s resurgence against the unpredictable Davidovich Fokina, we’ll cover what to expect—and who might come out on top.
Let’s dive into the Paris R3 previews and predictions for these high-stakes encounters.
Why These Matches Matter in the 2023 Season
The Paris Masters isn’t just another tournament—it’s the last major stop before the ATP Finals. For players like Rublev and Zverev, a deep run here could solidify their spots in Turin. For rising stars like Shelton, it’s a chance to aounce themselves on the biggest stage.
Here’s why these Round 3 showdowns are critical:
- Race to the ATP Finals: Rublev (currently 5th) and Zverev (6th) are fighting to secure their positions. A loss here could open the door for challengers like Stefanos Tsitsipas or Casper Ruud.
- Momentum for 2024: With the season winding down, confidence is everything. A strong Paris run can set the tone for next year’s Australian Open prep.
- Generational Clash: Shelton (21) vs. Rublev (26) and Zverev (26) vs. Davidovich Fokina (24) represent the present and future of men’s teis. Who will dominate?
- Surface Dynamics: The indoor hard courts in Paris favor big servers and aggressive baseliners—perfect for these players’ styles.
Now, let’s break down each matchup with detailed previews, stats, and predictions.
Match 1: Ben Shelton vs. Andrey Rublev
The Rising Star vs. The Russian Powerhouse
American Ben Shelton has been one of 2023’s breakout stars, with his booming serve and fearless attitude turning heads. Meanwhile, Andrey Rublev is a seasoned top-10 staple, known for his relentless groundstrokes and mental toughness.
This is their first career meeting, making it a fascinating clash of styles and experience.
Key Storylines & Form Guide
Ben Shelton: The Serve-Bot with Swagger
- 2023 Highlights: Quarterfinalist at the US Open (defeated Medvedev), title in Tokyo (defeated Aslan Karatsev).
- Weapons: 130+ mph serves, aggressive forehand, and a knack for clutch performances in tiebreaks.
- Weakness: Can be error-prone in long rallies; still adapting to the tour’s physical demands.
- Paris Form: Beat Lorenzo Sonego in R2 after a tough 3-set win over Arthur Rinderknech in R1.
Andrey Rublev: The Machine
- 2023 Highlights: 5 finals (1 title in Hamburg), consistent top-5 presence.
- Weapons: Lethal backhand, incredible court coverage, and one of the best return games on tour.
- Weakness: Struggles against elite servers (e.g., lost to Isner in Cinciati). Mental lapses in big moments.
- Paris Form: Straight-sets win over Stan Wawrinka in R2 after a bye in R1.
Head-to-Head & Style Matchup
With no prior meetings, we look at how their games match up:
- Serve vs. Return: Shelton’s serve is his biggest weapon, but Rublev is an elite returner (top 5 in return games won in 2023). If Shelton’s first-serve percentage dips below 60%, Rublev will punish him.
- Baseline Battles: Rublev thrives in long rallies, but Shelton’s forehand can dictate play if he’s aggressive. Expect short, explosive points if Shelton serves well.
- Mental Edge: Rublev has more experience in big matches, but Shelton has shown ice-cold nerves in tiebreaks (10-4 in 2023).
Prediction: Who Advances?
This is a toss-up, but the edge goes to Rublev in 3 sets. Here’s why:
- Rublev’s return game will neutralize Shelton’s serve in key moments.
- Shelton’s inexperience in best-of-3 matches against top-10 players could cost him.
- If Shelton starts strong (wins first set), he could pull off the upset—but Rublev’s consistency is likely to prevail.
Predicted Score: Rublev wins 6-7(5), 6-4, 6-3.
Match 2: Alexander Zverev vs. Alejandro Davidovich Fokina
The Comeback King vs. The Spanish Maverick
Alexander Zverev is on a mission to prove he’s back to his best after injuries derailed his 2022. Alejandro Davidovich Fokina, meanwhile, is the ultimate wildcard—unpredictable, flamboyant, and capable of beating anyone on his day.
They’ve met twice before, with Zverev wiing both (2021 Madrid, 2022 Rome). But Davidovich Fokina is a different beast indoors—where his creativity and touch shine.
Key Storylines & Form Guide
Alexander Zverev: The Resurgent Giant
- 2023 Highlights: Title in Chengdu, finalist in Beijing, semifinalist at the US Open (lost to Djokovic).
- Weapons: Monster serve (consistently 125+ mph), improved net play, and a renewed mental toughness.
- Weakness: Movement isn’t fully back to pre-injury levels; can get frustrated by unorthodox players.
- Paris Form: Straight-sets win over Roman Safiullin in R2 after a bye.
Alejandro Davidovich Fokina: The Artist
- 2023 Highlights: Quarterfinalist at Roland Garros, wins over Medvedev and Alcaraz in 2023.
- Weapons: Incredible touch (drop shots, lobs), elite defense, and a knack for disrupting rhythm.
- Weakness: Inconsistent serve (double faults under pressure), can lose focus in long matches.
- Paris Form: Beat Brandoakashima in R2 after a 3-set thriller against Lorenzo Musetti in R1.
Head-to-Head & Style Matchup
Zverev leads 2-0, but both matches were on clay. Indoor hard courts change everything:
- Serve Dominance: Zverev’s serve is even more potent indoors. If he hits 65%+ first serves, Davidovich Fokina will struggle to break.
- Defense vs. Power: ADF is one of the best defenders on tour, but Zverev’s angles and net play can expose him.
- Mental Battle: Zverev has historically struggled with emotions, but his 2023 resurgence suggests he’s more composed. ADF, meanwhile, thrives in chaotic matches.
- X-Factor: If Davidovich Fokina’s drop shots and lobs are on point, he can frustrate Zverev. But if Zverev stays patient, he’ll wear ADF down.
Prediction: Who Advances?
This could be the match of the round. Zverev is the favorite, but Davidovich Fokina’s magic makes this unpredictable.
If Zverev serves well: He wins in straight sets. His power game is too much for ADF on this surface.
If Davidovich Fokina dictates play: He could pull off the upset in 3 sets, using his variety to keep Zverev off balance.
Predicted Score: Zverev wins 7-5, 6-7(4), 6-3. Expect drama, tiebreaks, and at least one momentum swing.
Betting Odds & Fan Perspectives
Where the Money’s Going (Odds as of Oct 31, 2023)
- Shelton vs. Rublev:
- Rublev: 1.55 (favorite)
- Shelton: 2.40 (underdog)
- Zverev vs. Davidovich Fokina:
- Zverev: 1.40 (heavy favorite)
- Davidovich Fokina: 2.80 (longshot)
The odds reflect the experience gap in both matches, but upsets are always possible—especially with Shelton’s serve and ADF’s unpredictability.
What Fans Are Saying
Social media is buzzing with takes:
- On Shelton vs. Rublev: “If Ben’s serve is on, he can beat anyone. But Rublev’s return is elite—this is 50/50.”
- On Zverev vs. ADF: “ADF is the only player who can make Zverev look silly. If he’s feeling it, this could be a classic.”
- Dark Horse Alert: Some fans believe Shelton could be this year’s Holger Rune—a young gun making a deep run in Paris.
How to Watch & Key Timings
Don’t miss these matches! Here’s how to catch the action:
- Tourney Dates: October 30 – November 5, 2023
- Round 3 Schedule: Likely November 1-2 (exact times TBA).
- Where to Watch:
- 🇺🇸 Teis Chael / ESPN+
- 🇬🇧 Amazon Prime Video
- 🇪🇺 Eurosport
- 🌍 ATP Tour Live (subscription)
- Live Scores & Updates: Follow ATPTour.com or Flashscore.
Expert Tips for Betting & Fantasy Teis
If you’re looking to bet on these matches or play fantasy teis, here are some insider tips:
For Shelton vs. Rublev
- Over/Under Games: Bet Over 22.5 games. Both players have strong serves, and Rublev’s return will extend rallies.
- Tiebreak Likelihood: High. Shelton is 10-4 in tiebreaks this year; Rublev is 15-12. Expect at least one.
- First Serve %: If Shelton’s first-serve % is below 55%, Rublev wins easily. Track this stat live.
For Zverev vs. Davidovich Fokina
- Set Betting: Zverev in 3 sets is the smart pick. ADF will steal a set with his magic.
- Double Faults: ADF averages 4+ double faults per match. If he hits 6+, Zverev cruises.
- Live Betting: If ADF wins the first set, his odds for the upset will drop—consider a live bet on him.
What’s Next? Potential Round of 16 Clashes
The wiers of these matches could face:
- Rublev/Shelton Wier: Likely Stefanos Tsitsipas (if he beats Karen Khachanov). A Rublev-Tsitsipas rematch would be epic.
- Zverev/ADF Wier: Could meet Daniil Medvedev (if he beats Hubert Hurkacz). Zverev vs. Medvedev is a top-5 showdown.
Final Thoughts: Who’s Your Pick?
The Paris Masters Round 3 is delivering must-see teis. Whether you’re rooting for the rising stars (Shelton, ADF) or the established forces (Rublev, Zverev), these matches have drama, skill, and high stakes written all over them.
Here’s a quick recap of our predictions:
- Shelton vs. Rublev: Rublev in 3 (but don’t be shocked if Shelton pulls the upset).
- Zverev vs. Davidovich Fokina: Zverev in 3 (with at least one tiebreak).
Who do you think will advance? Are you backing the underdogs or the favorites? Drop your predictions in the comments!
How to Follow the Paris Masters Like a Pro
Want to stay ahead of the action? Here’s how to track stats, odds, and highlights like a teis insider:
- Use Live Stats: Flashscore or ATPTour.com for real-time data (aces, double faults, break points).
- Follow Experts: Twitter/X accounts like @BenRotters (stats) and @TheTeisPod (analysis) provide great insights.
- Bet Responsibly: If you’re wagering, stick to reputable bookmakers and avoid chasing losses.
- Watch Replays: Missed a match? Teis TV has full replays.
Conclusion: The Paris Masters Delivers Again
The 2023 Paris Masters is living up to its reputation as one of the most exciting, unpredictable events on the ATP calendar. With Shelton vs. Rublev and Zverev vs. Davidovich Fokina, Round 3 is a teis fan’s dream—youth vs. experience, power vs. finesse, and high stakes for the ATP Finals.
Will the next-gen stars (Shelton, ADF) aounce themselves on the big stage? Or will the veterans (Rublev, Zverev) hold firm? One thing’s for sure: you won’t want to miss a single point.
Tune in, place your bets (responsibly!), and enjoy the show!