Upsets Rock Delray Beach Open: Paul and Korda Advance to Semifinals

Delray Beach, FL – The Delray Beach Open witnessed a stunning day of upsets in the quarterfinals on Saturday, as top-seeded Taylor Fritz and second-seeded Casper Ruud were both ousted from the tournament. The results pave the way for all-American semifinal matchups.

Paul Stuns Fritz in Straight Sets

Tommy Paul delivered a decisive victory over long-time rival Taylor Fritz, winning 6-4, 6-3 in just over 80 minutes. This win levels their head-to-head series at 3-3. Paul, the fifth seed, utilized his athleticism to exploit a hampered Fritz, who has been struggling with oblique and knee issues early in the 2026 season.

“Delray is one of my favorite events of the year. Always fun getting to play in my backyard. I was gutted to miss this event in 2025 and really excited to be back in 2026.”

Tommy Paul

Paul secured a break in each set, neutralizing Fritz’s serve with deep returns and consistent baseline pressure. He will now face Learner Tien in the semifinals.

Korda Completes the Upset Run

Sebastian Korda continued the trend of upsets, battling back to defeat Casper Ruud 4-6, 6-2, 6-2. Korda adjusted his court position in the second set, taking the ball earlier and forcing Ruud into defensive positions after initially struggling with the depth of Ruud’s forehand.

Korda will face Flavio Cobolli in the semifinals.

All-American Semifinals Set

The tournament now features two all-American semifinal matches. Paul will take on Tien, while Korda will face Cobolli. Tien previously defeated Frances Tiafoe 7-6(5), 3-6, 7-5 to secure his spot.

“He’s obviously really turned it on in the past year or so. He’s undoubtedly one of the best players in the world now,”

Tommy Paul on Learner Tien

The results mark a significant shift in the draw, as the tournament’s heavyweights were eliminated on consecutive matches on Center Court.

FAQ

• Who won against Taylor Fritz? Tommy Paul.
• Who defeated Casper Ruud? Sebastian Korda.
• What is the status of Taylor Fritz’s health? He has been struggling with oblique and knee issues.

The Delray Beach Open continues to deliver exciting tennis action, with the semifinals promising compelling matchups as the tournament progresses.