Arthur Fils defeats Tommy Paul in epic Miami Open slugfest

In what has been the best match thus far in the 2026 Miami Open , French tennis star Arthur Fils defeated American Tommy Paul in three sets, 6-7, 7-6, 7-6. Neither player could win a set without enduring a tiebreaker, and Paul came out on top in the first, but Fils dug deep to win the next two. He was down 6-2 in the third tiebreak and won five consecutive points saving multiple match points.

MORE: Miami Open players go undercover working as staff members in hilarious viral video Fils has frightening power The topspin and power coming off of Fils’s racquet was amazing and frightening. Paul also dialed up his power and was very aggressive knowing that would be required to win. It was a physical match that lasted more than 2 3/4 hours, and most of the time Paul looked to be the fresher of the two players.

Fils, soaked in perspiration from head to toe, was sucking down Gatorade, pickle juice, and bananas to gain energy. MORE; Coco Gauff credited social media coaching tip in Miami Open win over Sorana Cirstea Arthur Fils is back Fils suffered a back injury that forced him to withdraw during the French Open last year. He missed the rest of the season, and some feared it would be career threatening.

At 21, he is one of the best young talents on the ATP Tour, and in my opinion, if he stays healthy, is the biggest threat to Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner ‘s dominance. His forehand is exceptional, and winners in excess of 105 miles per hour are the norm for him. The crowd was cheering for Paul; however, they gave Fils props for the win.