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The Italian edged a tough test 3-6, 6-3, 3-6 as Thompson just failed to be the first to book a place in Monday's (AEST) final in London.

Having won the opening set, Thompson fought back in the second to take the match to a decider.

Despite saving five break points in the eighth game, the Australian was eventually beaten as Musetti grabbed his first match point to book his place in his first grass final.

"It was one of the toughest matches of the week," Musetti said.

"Jordan was playing amazing, especially in the second and third sets. It was a really tough match. I am really proud of my achievement. I love this sport."

Thompson was aiming to reach his fourth ATP final on grass. The 30-year-old had enjoyed runs to the championship match in ‘s-Hertogenbosch in 2019 and 2023.

Musetti, however, maintained his unbeaten record against the Australian, having won their previous encounter in straight sets in Adelaide back in January.

Later in the day, Paul came through an all-American contest in straight sets, emerging a 6-4, 7-6 (7-1) victor over Sebastian Korda to set up a maiden encounter with Musetti.

Paul, 27, quickly found a break in the second game against his opponent and despite Korda replying with a break of his own in the seventh game, was unable to recover from his slow start.

The second set flowed with both players trading break points, but an error-strewn display from Korda allowed Paul to see out the contest with relative ease to become the first American finalist at Queen's since 2010.

After three consecutive defeats against Korda, Paul has now won two of his past three meetings with his compatriot.