World No. 1 Carlos Alcaraz capped off a remarkable week in Tokyo by defeating American Taylor Fritz 6-4, 6-4 to claim the Japan Open title on Tuesday, securing his eighth trophy of a stellar season, MySportDab Reports.
The 22-year-old Spaniard, who suffered an ankle injury in his opening match, defied discomfort throughout the tournament to deliver another display of relentless power and athleticism.
Despite heavy strapping and moments of visible concern, Alcaraz proved too strong for Fritz, currently ranked fifth in the world, and lifted the trophy on his first appearance in Japan.
“The start of the week was not really good with the ankle, and the way I came back from that, playing a great tournament and great matches, I’m just really happy,” Alcaraz said after the victory. “First time in Tokyo, first title here, hopefully not the last one.”
The win also provided a measure of revenge for the US Open champion, who lost to Fritz at the Laver Cup earlier this month.
In Tuesday’s final, Alcaraz broke through late in the opening set before racing to a 4-1 lead in the second with his trademark forehand dominance. Fritz managed to claw one break back but the Spaniard held firm to seal the straight-sets victory.
Alcaraz has now reached nine consecutive finals and 10 overall this season, a feat last achieved by fellow Spaniard Rafael Nadal in 2017. His victory adds to a glittering year that already includes a sixth Grand Slam title.
Fritz, a former Japan Open winner in 2022, was aiming for his third trophy of 2025 after triumphs in Stuttgart and Eastbourne, but was ultimately overpowered. Both men now turn their attention to the Shanghai Masters, where they are among the leading contenders.
