ATP Tokyo: Men's singles semifinalists confirmed, Alcaraz to face Ruud in semis

On September 28th, the ATP 500 Tokyo tournament held the men's singles quarterfinals. World No.1 Alcaraz, playing the final match on the center court, defeated American Brandon Nakashima 6-2, 6-4. This marks his ninth consecutive tournament reaching at least the semifinals and his 65th singles victory on the tour this season.

Photo of Alcaraz

The Spaniard suffered a twisted ankle during his first-round match against Sebastian Baez, raising concerns. However, he stated that the injury is now under control: "It was definitely tricky, but the day and a half of recovery after the match was crucial, and I gave my all in rehab. I've said before that my physiotherapist is world-class, and I trust him completely. His care for my ankle has been excellent, allowing me to compete normally, which is fantastic. Although some movements still worry me and I occasionally feel discomfort, I still managed to play a great match."

Alcaraz's opponent in the semifinals will be Norwegian star Ruud, who took only 58 minutes to defeat qualifier Vukic 6-3, 6-2. This is Ruud's first time reaching a tour-level semifinal since his comeback in late July.

Former champion and second seed Fritz beat fellow American Korda 6-3, 6-7(5), 6-3 to reach his 39th career tour semifinal, immediately returning to world No.4 in the rankings. Fritz will face another American, Brooksby, in the semifinals, after Brooksby caused an upset by defeating third seed Rune 6-3, 6-3.

(Text and editing by Wang Fei, photos courtesy of Visual China)