World No. 1 Carlos Alcaraz made his highly anticipated debut at the Japan Open in Tokyo, facing Argentina’s Sebastián Báez in the opening round. The Spaniard arrived in Japan after representing Team Europe at the Laver Cup. Despite concerns over a medical incident during the match, Alcaraz managed to progress through his inaugural appearance at the ATP 500 event.
What Happened During Carlos Alcaraz’s Tokyo Opener
The encounter between Alcaraz and Báez took a dramatic turn during the fifth game of the opening set when the Spanish star pulled up mid-point with what appeared to be an ankle injury. After taking several tentative steps on court, the Spaniard fell onto his back and covered his face with his hands in visible distress. The concerning moment prompted immediate medical attention as the World No. 1 called for a timeout.
During the medical break, the medical staff applied black strapping around Alcaraz’s left ankle and the underside of his left foot to provide additional support. The treatment also included taping to stabilize the injured area before the 22-year-old decided to continue competing and eventually won the match 6-4, 6-2.
Oh no, Charly 🥺
Alcaraz pulls up mid-point, clutching at his Achilles. Receiving treatment #kinoshitajotennis pic.twitter.com/xsucpqFsgC
— Tennis TV (@TennisTV) September 25, 2025
Alcaraz’s Comments After Beating Sebastián Báez
Following the match, Alcaraz talked about his sprain during the post-match on-court interview. He made an honest admission about the condition, saying, “In the first five minutes I thought I wouldn’t continue. I was scared. I’m not gonna lie. I felt my ankle and didn’t feel great. I’m just happy to be able to play after that. I will try to be ready for the next match. It was unlucky.”
Alcaraz.
“I was scared. I’m not gonna lie. I felt my ankle and didn’t feel great. I’m just happy to be able to play after that. I will try to be ready for the next match. It was unlucky”.
“In the first five minutes I thought I wouldn’t continue”. pic.twitter.com/OojZJDH0B4
— José Morgado (@josemorgado) September 25, 2025
After defeating Báez, Alcaraz will next lock horns with Zizou Bergs, who booked his place in the Round of 16 after edging out Chengdu Open champion Alejandro Tabilo 1-6, 7-6(2), 7-6(4). This will be the very first encounter between the two and whoever comes out on top, will face either Hungarian qualifier Márton Fucsovics or Brandon Nakashima in the quarterfinals of the Japan Open.
