Alcaraz Survives First-Set Test
Carlos Alcaraz continued his title defense at the Japan Open in Tokyo by advancing when Denis Shapovalov was forced to retire with an injury while trailing by a set and 2-1. The top-seeded Spaniard was tested early by the Canadian and eventually took the first set in a tiebreak after failing to serve it out at 6-5. The opening set featured six breaks of serve.[S1]
Shapovalov led 5-3 in the first set after his second break, but Alcaraz broke back in each of the next two service games to seize the advantage. The defending champion did not let his serving issues bother him in the tiebreak, winning seven of the final eight points to close out the set with a backhand crosscourt winner that brought the crowd to its feet.[S1]
Shapovalov Forced to Retire
Shapovalov's fortunes turned early in the second set when he stretched for a forehand on the first point and appeared to suffer a right leg injury. He immediately grabbed at the area around his right hip, took time between points, and limped off the court for an off-court medical timeout after the first game. Two games later, the Canadian decided to end the contest after 82 minutes.[S1]
Alcaraz will face Jaume Munar in the semifinals. After his win, the Spaniard signed the camera with the message: Be back soon, Denis. Alcaraz improves to 8-0 lifetime in Tokyo and holds a 3-1 lifetime record against Munar. Earlier on Sunday, Munar defeated Kyrian Jacquet 6-4, 6-2.[S1]
