Alcaraz begins Japan Open defence with win over Michelsen
The Spanish world number three beat Alex Michelsen 7-6 (7/1), 4-6, 6-1.
TOKYO - Spanish tennis star Carlos Alcaraz secured a strong start to his Japan Open title defence by defeating American Alex Michelsen 7-6 (7/1), 4-6, 6-1 on Thursday. The world number three struggled initially, but ultimately found his rhythm in the final set, showcasing his skills with powerful aces and precise volleys. Alcaraz, who returned to action after a four-month injury absence, will face Italy's Matteo Arnaldi, ranked 37th, in the subsequent round.
Meanwhile, Frances Tiafoe, the second-seeded player, effortlessly won his match against Japan's Kei Nishikori, 6-4, 6-4, marking the end of Nishikori's tennis career as the Asian nation's most decorated male player. In other notable results, Jaume Munar from Spain upset third-seeded Taylor Fritz, the 2022 champion, 7-6 (9/7), 4-6, 6-3, while Casper Ruud of Denmark was eliminated by Italy's Luciano Darderi, 7-6 (7/3), 6-3.
Lastly, fifth-seeded American Brandon Nakashima suffered a 6-3, 6-2 defeat to Frenchman Ugo Humbert.
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- Alcaraz begins Japan Open defence with win over Michelsen freemalaysiatoday.com
