Defending champion Carlos Alcaraz overcame four set points in a tense first-set tiebreak before defeating Matteo Arnaldi 7-6(6), 6-1 at the Kinoshita Group Japan Open Tennis Championships on October 3.
How Alcaraz Survived the First Set Tiebreak
The opening set saw aggressive baseline exchanges as Alcaraz let slip an early 2-0 lead, allowing Arnaldi to force a tiebreak. The Italian world No. 37 seized a 6-2 advantage, holding four set points. Alcaraz erased the deficit by hitting consecutive winners off his backhand and a drive volley to level the score at 6-6. He then secured the opening set 7-6 by converting a lengthy rally with a backhand smash.
Reflecting on the comeback during his post-match press conference, Alcaraz noted that he maintained his focus by assuming a set remains live until the opponent claims the final point. He explained that he concentrated on taking it one point at a time to see if he could neutralize every set point.
Tactical Adjustments Shape Second Set Dominance
Carrying momentum into the second set, Alcaraz broke Arnaldi’s serve twice and did not face a single break point against his own serve. He controlled the baseline and shut out the Italian to close out the match in straight sets.
Alcaraz detailed a tactical shift that altered the second set’s momentum. He observed that hitting the ball at high speeds allowed Arnaldi to settle comfortably near the baseline. Consequently, Alcaraz lowered his shot speed, keeping the initial four to six strokes of rallies at a measured pace before applying pressure, a strategy that disrupted his opponent’s rhythm.
Reflecting on Injury Absence and Playing with Joy
The victory marks a continuation of Alcaraz’s campaign to defend his title, a feat last achieved by Pete Sampras in 1993 and 1994. Alcaraz has now won seven straight matches in Tokyo since making his tournament debut last year.
The world No. 3 also addressed his return to the tour following a four-and-a-half-month absence due to a right wrist injury. He stated that stepping onto the court to compete feels like a gift after missing extended time, adding that the spell away reminded him how much he missed the tour and inspired him to appreciate every opportunity to play.
Next Opponent Denis Shapovalov in the Quarterfinals
In the quarterfinals, Alcaraz will face Denis Shapovalov. The Canadian advanced to his 50th career tour-level quarterfinal by defeating Alejandro Tabilo 7-5, 3-6, 6-4 in his second-round match.
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