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Carlos Alcaraz Survives Michelsen Test to Begin Japan Open Title Defence

Posted : 01 October 2026

Carlos Alcaraz began his defence of the Japan Open title with a hard-fought 7-6 (7-1), 4-6, 6-1 victory over American Alex Michelsen in Tokyo on Thursday.

The world No. 3 struggled to find his rhythm early in the match, making a number of unforced errors as Michelsen used his powerful serve and aggressive approach to put pressure on the Spaniard. Alcaraz eventually took control of the opening-set tie-break after saving three set points.

Michelsen responded strongly in the second set. Alcaraz led 4-2 but could not maintain his advantage, with the 22-year-old American winning four consecutive games to force a decider.

The third set was a different story. Alcaraz found greater consistency with his serve and groundstrokes, racing into a commanding lead before closing out the match 6-1. The victory keeps his title defence on course and extends his unbeaten record at the Tokyo tournament to six matches.

Alcaraz said the conditions were difficult to adjust to because the outdoor court played more slowly than the indoor surfaces he had recently experienced. He was nevertheless pleased to find a way through the challenge and secure the win.

The seven-time Grand Slam champion will face Italy's Matteo Arnaldi in the next round. Alcaraz is attempting to become the first man since Pete Sampras to successfully defend the Tokyo title.

Elsewhere, second seed Frances Tiafoe defeated home favourite Kei Nishikori 6-4, 6-4 in what proved to be the Japanese veteran's final professional match. Nishikori announced his retirement earlier this year after a career repeatedly affected by injuries.

The tournament also saw several major upsets. Third seed Taylor Fritz lost to Spanish qualifier Jaume Munar 6-7 (7-9), 6-4, 6-3, while sixth seed Casper Ruud was beaten by Italy's Luciano Darderi 7-6 (7-3), 6-3. Fifth seed Brandon Nakashima also exited after losing 6-3, 6-2 to France's Ugo Humbert.

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