American tennis player Tommy Paul fought through significant abdominal and adductor injuries during his French Open quarterfinal match against defending champion Carlos Alcaraz on Tuesday in Paris. Though Paul ultimately fell in straight sets, his determination to compete despite physical pain defined his performance on the court.
Seeded 12th, the 28-year-old reached his deepest run at Roland Garros by defeating Elmer Møller, Márton Fucsovics, Karen Khachanov, and Alexei Popyrin in earlier rounds. Entering the quarterfinal with lingering injuries, Paul was unable to combat Alcaraz’s relentless pace, resulting in a 0-6, 1-6, 4-6 defeat.
Paul Reflects on Playing Through Injury and Crowd Support
In his post-match press conference, Paul openly acknowledged the impact his injuries had on his mobility and performance. He said,
I’ve felt better. Obviously, I went into the match like I want to win the match. But pretty early on, it was pretty obvious that I wasn’t moving amazing.
—Tommy Paul, Professional Tennis Player
Despite these obstacles, the atmosphere of the night session inspired Paul to give his best effort. He added,
Everyone bought tickets to the night session. Everyone who was there deserved to see me play or try my best. And that’s what I went out and tried to do,
Admitting the pressure fueled by the audience’s expectations, Paul noted,
Maybe a little bit, but at the same time, I earned that moment to be playing that match in the quarterfinals here. Obviously, I don’t want it to go like that. But you know, I deserve to play the whole match, and that’s what I did.
—Tommy Paul, Professional Tennis Player
Details of Paul’s Injury Battles During French Open Run
Post-match, Paul offered further insight into the injuries that hampered his game. He described,
It’s my ab and my adductors. I mean, just a couple things. We’re going to figure that out in the next couple days.
—Tommy Paul, Professional Tennis Player
He also revealed his resolve throughout the tournament despite physical difficulties, saying,
Two sets down in the second round, I’d be lying if I told you I thought I’d be here tonight. But that’s what I tried to do the whole week, just fight and extend matches.
—Tommy Paul, Professional Tennis Player
Paul’s Take on His Quarterfinal Performance Against Alcaraz
Although Alcaraz dominated much of the match, Paul expressed satisfaction in his efforts and offered good wishes to the tournament’s defending champion. He reflected,
Carlos was playing so quick and had me on my back foot the whole time. Felt like he was on offense, and that was not what I needed tonight. I’m proud of the week. I did the best I could with what I had tonight, and I’m wishing Carlos the best of luck for the rest of the tournament.
—Tommy Paul, Professional Tennis Player
Next Steps and Future Tournament Plans for Paul
Looking ahead, Paul has not dismissed the possibility of defending his title at Queen’s Club this summer. He confirmed,
That’s the plan. I’m signed up for the tournament, and I’ll go home and try to figure all that stuff out,
—Tommy Paul, Professional Tennis Player
While his French Open campaign ended earlier than hoped, Paul’s perseverance while injured highlights both his physical toughness and competitive spirit. His decision to continue competing despite discomfort underlines the intensity of high-level tennis and his commitment to the sport’s biggest stages.