World No. 1 Carlos Alcaraz got off to a winning start in his Tokyo debut, defeating Sebastian Baez 6-4 6-2. While the scoreline suggests a straightforward victory, the match was anything but routine.
Midway through the first set, after both players had exchanged early breaks, the Spaniard collapsed to the court in agony. Alcaraz clutched at his ankle area in what appeared to be a non-contact ankle or muscle sprain, and for a moment looked close to withdrawing.
After a medical timeout and heavy strapping, he chose to continue and ultimately sealed the win. However, he looked uncharacteristically muted emotionally and struggled to move effectively to his backhand corner for the remainder of the match.
Seeds Struggling in Tokyo
Oh no, Charly 🥺
Alcaraz pulls up mid-point, clutching at his Achilles. Receiving treatment #kinoshitajotennis pic.twitter.com/xsucpqFsgC
— Tennis TV (@TennisTV) September 25, 2025
It was a difficult day for seeded players at the Kinoshita Group Japan Open, with four of the eight seeds bowing out.
Japanese qualifier Sho Shimabukuro stunned Tomas Machac in straight sets to produce the upset of the day. Jenson Brooksby and Daniel Altmaier also delivered strong performances, defeating Ugo Humbert and Denis Shapovalov in straight sets respectively, while Marton Fucsovics edged out Frances Tiafoe in a thrilling three-set battle.
The remaining three seeded players also had to fight hard for their survival. Taylor Fritz came from a set down to defeat Gabriel Diallo in a dramatic third-set tiebreak, while Casper Ruud mounted a late charge, winning 12 of the final 13 games to complete a comeback against home favorite Shintaro Mochizuki.
Meanwhile, Holger Rune, who arrived in Tokyo short on form and confidence, also endured a shaky start. Down an early break to Hamad Medjedovic, Rune rallied to claim the opening set in a tight tiebreak before going on to close out the match in straight sets—a much-needed win for the Dane’s morale.
Depth of the Tour on Full Display
The opening day in Tokyo highlighted the growing depth of talent on the ATP Tour, where even top seeds are being pushed to their limits. With so many upsets already, every match feels like a potential blockbuster. Still, all eyes will remain on Carlos Alcaraz and the severity of his ankle injury, which could play a decisive role in shaping the rest of the tournament.
Main Photo Credit: Mike Frey-USA TODAY Sports
