Carlos Alcaraz retains Tokyo title to strengthen push for world number two

Carlos Alcaraz successfully defended his Tokyo title with a 7-6, 6-4 victory over Jiri Lehecka, beginning his Asian swing with another tournament triumph in the Japanese capital.

The Spaniard was made to work for the win despite completing it in straight sets. He lost the first three points on his serve at the start of the match, while Lehecka remained composed and held the advantage through much of the opening set.

Alcaraz gradually raised his level and began to impose himself on the contest. He handled the pressure points more effectively in the tie-break, closing out the opening set after a closely fought exchange.

Serve continued to prove important in the second set, with neither player able to create many opportunities. Alcaraz took advantage of the only chance that came his way, securing the decisive break before serving out the match and celebrating with his arms raised in Tokyo.

After the trophy ceremony, Alcaraz wrote on the camera lens: “2-2 I love Tokyo… Thank you very much.”

The message referred to his record of winning both of his appearances at the tournament.

The title gives Alcaraz valuable momentum as he continues his Asian campaign at the Shanghai Masters 1000. He has never won the event, and his Tokyo success also consolidates his position at number three in the world rankings.

It could provide Alcaraz with an opportunity to reduce the gap to Jannik Sinner, who will not play again for the rest of the season. Strong results in Shanghai, Paris and the ATP Finals could put Alcaraz in contention to move up to second in the rankings, behind Alexander Zverev.

Alcaraz also used his victory speech to acknowledge the work of his team and reflect on his recovery from injury.

“What a journey we have been through,” he said. “My injury process was very long and there were doubts, good moments and bad moments, but you gave everything you had to make sure I was at my best when I came back, and you took care of my injury so I would not suffer a relapse.”

He added: “You make me better on and off the court. I feel very lucky that I can work with you.”