Overcoming adversity, Alcaraz reaches the final of the Japan Open

On the evening of September 29, world No.1 Carlos Alcaraz staged an impressive comeback to defeat Casper Ruud in the semifinals of the 2025 Japan Open.

World No.1 Carlos Alcaraz made a remarkable comeback to beat Casper Ruud 3-6, 6-3, 6-4 in the Japan Open semifinal on September 29, earning a spot in the final against second seed Taylor Fritz. This is a chance for the Spanish player to claim his eighth title this year and to avenge his loss to Fritz at the Laver Cup in San Francisco earlier this month.

Alcaraz had a rough start, missing four break points and losing the first set 3-6. Ruud played solidly from the baseline, consistently scoring with skillful shots both from the backcourt and at the net. Frustrated by missed opportunities, Alcaraz showed visible anger on court. However, the 21-year-old regained his composure in time and came back strong in the second set with powerful serves and more aggressive attacking. He closed the set 6-3 to level the match.

In the deciding set, Alcaraz kept up the pressure. He broke serve in the fifth game to take the lead and maintained his advantage until closing out the match 6-4. This victory marks an important milestone for Alcaraz, especially after a shaky start.

“I had several chances in the first set but couldn’t capitalize. Matches can be decided by small details. I tried to stay patient, stay positive, and rediscover the joy of playing. That was the key to my comeback,” Alcaraz said after the match.

The upcoming final will be the second meeting this year between Alcaraz and Fritz, following Alcaraz’s unexpected defeat to the American at the Laver Cup. The Spaniard is clearly determined to get revenge.

“He is playing excellent tennis, both at the Laver Cup against me and Zverev, and here in this tournament. He feels very comfortable on the court. I will try to adjust some things because the court conditions here differ from San Francisco. It will be a different challenge, but I’m excited for it,” he said.

Meanwhile, Taylor Fritz secured his place in the final by defeating fellow American Jenson Brooksby 6-3, 6-3 in the earlier semifinal. The 2022 Japan Open champion showed excellent serving form, delivering 13 aces and maintaining composure during crucial moments.

“I served well today. My first-serve percentage was high, with many shots landing on the lines. In games where I didn’t hit three aces, Brooksby applied strong pressure and played better from the baseline. But I held on thanks to my serve, kept the scoreboard pressure, and capitalized on his errors. Honestly, my serve saved me,” Fritz shared.

Alcaraz will have a chance to claim his eighth title this year if he beats Fritz, while also improving his head-to-head record to 2-3 against the American.