Carlos Alcaraz advanced to the semifinals of the Japan Open in Tokyo after his quarterfinal opponent, Denis Shapovalov, retired due to a hip injury during Sunday’s match. At the time of the stoppage, the defending champion led 7–6 (7–3), 2–1, following a first set that featured six service breaks and a tense tiebreak.
How Alcaraz Navigated a Chaotic First Set
The opening set tested Alcaraz immediately. He dropped his serve three times and admitted finding his rhythm difficult. Shapovalov built a 5–3 lead and held a set point before the Spaniard mounted a recovery.
“With my service it was a bit frustrating. I just couldn’t find a good way,” Alcaraz said after the match. “But I am just happy with the way I came back after every break. It was a great first set: fantastic points, unbelievable rallies.” Alcaraz ultimately leveled the score and controlled the tiebreak 7–3 to take the early advantage.
Shapovalov Retirement Halts the Quarterfinal
The match came to a premature end early in the second set. Shapovalov experienced physical trouble, specifically appearing to injure his hip, and requested a medical timeout after the opening game of the second set.
The Canadian player attempted to resume play but quickly realized he could not continue, handing Alcaraz a walkover into the next round. It marks the first time Alcaraz has reached an ATP tournament semifinal since the Monte-Carlo Masters in April.
“It’s a shame that he had to retire,” Alcaraz said regarding his opponent’s exit. “To reach a semifinal like this is not the way I wanted it, but sometimes sport is tough. You have to accept it.”
Semifinal Matchup Against Jaume Munar
With the quarterfinal secured, Alcaraz advances to face compatriot Jaume Munar in the final four. Munar earned his spot in the semifinals by defeating Kyrian Jacquet in straight sets, 6–4, 6–2.
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