Carlos Alcaraz Downs Taylor Fritz to Win Japan Open for First Time
Locker Room
September 30, 2025
Carlos Alcaraz is more than used to winning – but he has never been this big in Japan.
What a way to introduce himself to the Tokyo public. An eighth ATP title of the year. A third trophy in quick succession since losing to Jannik Sinner at Wimbledon.
Carlos Alcaraz looks more than capable of winning back the biggest title of them all at Wimbledon 2026.
He took the US Open in stunning style, after all. Sinner has not seized total control of world tennis as some predicted after Wimbledon.
The great rivalry is perfectly poised to thrill us all again next year – including when it matters at the All England Club.
Make no mistake, these young men take the breath away when you watch them at close quarters.
Japanese fans got to see Alcaraz for the first time – and they could scarcely believe their eyes.
What a stunning recovery from the popular Spaniard, after he twisted an ankle just four games into the tournament.
And a hat-trick of drop shots sealed the deal against an injured Fritz, as Carlitos used all available weaponry to win 6-4, 6-4 in the final.
The American had competed valiantly after his thigh was strapped up to the max at 1-2 behind in the second. He even earned a break point to draw level.
But in the end it was Carlitos who held firm and closed out with confidence – despite one defiant break-back from Taylor after the favourite had appeared to draw clear.
Not that Alcaraz put his own injury issues entirely behind him. And that’s why he has very sensibly pulled out of Shanghai.
It does him no harm to take a breather from the relentless schedule and let the niggles go away before they turn into something more serious.
Alcaraz said: ‘Unfortunately I’ve been struggling with some physical issues. After discussing with my team, we believe the best decision is to rest and recover.’
Meanwhile Jannik Sinner has reached the final in Beijing after a 6-3, 4-6, 6-2 battle against Alex de Minaur.
He should clinch the title against American teenager Learner Tien on Wednesday.
Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner are going great guns wherever they play. A fresh showdown at Wimbledon 2026 seems likely.
Would you like to see two of the greatest sportsmen on earth go toe-to-toe at the All England Club next year?
Just get in touch with our friendly staff to secure some of the best Centre Court seats in the house. Then look forward to one of the experiences of a lifetime.