Carlos Alcaraz beats Taylor Fritz, wins Tokyo title on debut

Carlos Alcaraz was delighted after he bested Taylor Fritz in the Japan Open final on Tuesday. The Spaniard registered a 6-4, 6-4 to win his eighth title of the season. Fritz had recently defeated Alcaraz in straight sets in the Laver Cup but the latter bounced back strongly against the American in Tokyo.

Alcaraz has claimed 67 wins in the ongoing season as he has been playing at his absolute best on the tour. This is Spaniard’s best season of his career and he is marching towards Jannik Sinner’s record of 73 wins in the last edition.

“It’s been my best season so far without a doubt,” Alcaraz said. “Eight titles, 10 finals… That shows how hard I’ve worked just to be able to experience these moments and accomplish my goals. I didn’t start the year that good, struggling emotionally, so how I came back from that, I’m just really proud of myself, and of all the people around me who have helped me to be in this position.”

Alcaraz said he enjoyed his time in Tokyo, barring the injury scare he suffered in the opening round of the tournament against Sebastian Baez. The youngster had fallen awkwardly and looked in trouble but in the end, the injury was not serious and he was able to continue.

“I enjoyed every single second, [apart from] the five minutes I was on the floor after I hurt my ankle,” Alcaraz joked about his Tokyo debut. “I’m really happy with the level that I played, with everything. Starting the week not good with the ankle, and the way that I came back from that, I’m just really happy about it.”

Alcaraz has decided to withdraw from upcoming Shanghai Masters due to left ankle injury.