Deformation in metro shield tunnels is a consequence of conducting adjacent deep excavations. Accordingly, this research examines the response of existing metro shield tunnels in Shanghai’s soft ground to nearby deep excavations, focusing on how tunnel deformation correlates with the distance to the excavation. Utilizing actual measurement data from metro shield tunnels located 12-45 m from an 11.5-24.1-m-deep excavation, the study initiates with a project overview before analyzing the deformation data of the metro tunnels. This analysis includes the settlement and transverse convergence of both upward and downward lines. Furthermore, by integrating the settlement history curve and settlement increment ratio statistics, the study explores the deformation of the metro tunnels across different construction stages of the adjacent excavation. Additionally, the effect of the distance to the excavation on metro tunnel deformation is discussed, considering identical excavation depths, supporting stiffness, construction levels, and soil conditions. This investigation aims to provide insights applicable to similar cases and inform future research.