World · Singapore Bureau
Alcaraz advances in Tokyo despite serve adjustments; top seeds stumble
Carlos Alcaraz overcame early service issues to defeat American Alex Michelsen and maintain his title defence at the Japan Open on Thursday. The defending champion progressed despite a revamped serve, while several higher-ranked players crashed out in the opening round.
LSN Singapore ·
Alcaraz's 7-6(1) 4-6 6-1 victory over unseeded Michelsen demonstrated the Spaniard's ability to adjust on court, even as he continues to refine modifications to his service technique. The world number three endured some uneven moments with his retooled serve early in the match but ultimately secured a commanding win that keeps him on track for back-to-back titles in Tokyo.
The opening set proved the most competitive, with the tiebreak turning decisively in Alcaraz's favour. He lost the second set as he continued to work through the mechanics of his adjusted serve, but reasserted control in the third to seal victory in straight sets.
Alcaraz's progression contrasts sharply with the fortunes of other seeded players at the tournament. Several top-ranked competitors were eliminated in their first-round matches on Thursday, signalling an unpredictable draw that may offer opportunities for unseeded challengers and lower-ranked players to make deep tournament runs.
The 21-year-old will look to build momentum in subsequent rounds as he pursues a second consecutive Japan Open title, though continued refinement of his serve will be essential as the tournament progresses against increasingly formidable opposition.