Alcaraz Clinches Japan Open Despite Ankle Injury

Tokyo – World No. 1 Carlos Alcaraz secured his eighth title of the season on Tuesday, defeating American Taylor Fritz 6-4, 6-4 in the Japan Open final. The 22-year-old Spaniard displayed remarkable resilience and skill, overcoming an ankle injury that had threatened his campaign earlier in the week.

Alcaraz, who struggled with the injury in his opening match after crumpling to the ground while chasing a shot, returned to the court with heavy strapping on his ankle. Despite the setback, he maintained a high level of play throughout the tournament, culminating in a commanding performance against world No. 5 Fritz.

In his first appearance in Japan, Alcaraz impressed fans with a combination of power, athleticism, and tactical finesse. He secured the championship point with a cleverly disguised drop shot and celebrated with a warm embrace of his opponent at the net.

Stay informed with the latest news. Follow DXB News Network on WhatsApp Channel 

“First time in Tokyo, first title here, hopefully not the last one,” said Alcaraz. “The start of the week was not really good with the ankle, but coming back and playing great matches, I’m really happy about it.”

The victory marked Alcaraz’s ninth consecutive final and his 10th of the 2025 season, a feat not achieved by any male player since Rafael Nadal in 2017. The win also served as redemption for Alcaraz, who had lost to Fritz at the Laver Cup in San Francisco just two weeks earlier.

The final saw Alcaraz break Fritz in the ninth game of the first set to take control, eventually closing it out as Fritz’s return sailed into the net. In the second set, Alcaraz broke Fritz early and established a 4-1 lead, applying relentless pressure with his signature forehands. Although Fritz managed to secure a break, Alcaraz clinched the title on his next service game.

Alcaraz expressed his gratitude to the Japanese fans: “It’s been a pleasure to play here. I enjoyed every single second on the court, except the five minutes when I was on the floor with my ankle.”

Fritz, who had won the Japan Open in 2022 and was seeking his third title of the season after victories in Stuttgart and Eastbourne, fell short but remains a strong contender for upcoming tournaments. Both players are scheduled to compete in the Shanghai Masters this week.