Ankle Worry Free Alcaraz Advances to Tokyo Semifinals

Transforming Alcaraz Shines in Tokyo Despite Ankle Strain

Carlos Alcaraz Advances to Tokyo ATP 500 Semifinals

Spanish tennis sensation Carlos Alcaraz showcased remarkable resilience by overcoming a recent ankle injury to secure a decisive 6-2, 6-4 victory over American Brandon Nakashima. This triumph at the ATP 500 tournament in Tokyo propels Alcaraz into the semifinals, where he will face Norway’s Casper Ruud.

Adapting Strategy for Success Against Nakashima

Alcaraz entered the Tokyo tournament with an ankle strain that occurred in the early rounds, which weighed heavily on his mind during subsequent matches. Despite the setback, Alcaraz adjusted his playing style, opting for a more aggressive approach to minimize exertion and protect his ankle.

“I had to play more aggressively because I wanted him to run more than me in this match,” Alcaraz explained. “At times, my speed wasn’t where I wanted it to be, so I took precautions with my movement.”

Comprehensive Victory over Nakashima

In just one hour and twenty minutes, Alcaraz, ranked number one globally, dominated Nakashima (ranked 33rd), asserting his authority from the outset.

Though Nakashima showed signs of a comeback in the second set, Alcaraz broke his serve in the fifth game. After missing three match points in the ninth game, Alcaraz secured victory with his service, highlighting his impressive form.

Upcoming Semifinal Clash with Casper Ruud

Next, Alcaraz will face Norway’s Casper Ruud, who secured his semifinal spot by defeating Australia’s Aleksandar Vukic 6-3, 6-2. Alcaraz expressed confidence in his performance, stating, “I won’t lie, I believe I played incredibly today.”

Highlights from Other Quarterfinal Matches

The Tokyo tournament’s other semifinals will see an all-American battle between Taylor Fritz (5th seed) and Jenson Brooksby (86th seed). Fritz moved past Sebastian Korda in a hard-fought match, concluding 6-3, 6-7 (5/7), 6-3.

Quarterfinal Results at Tokyo ATP 500 Tournament:

• Carlos Alcaraz (ESP/N.1) defeated Brandon Nakashima (USA) 6-2, 6-4
• Casper Ruud (NOR/N.4) defeated Aleksandar Vukic (AUS) 6-3, 6-2
• Jenson Brooksby (USA) defeated Holger Rune (DEN/N.3) 6-3, 6-3
• Taylor Fritz (USA/N.2) defeated Sebastian Korda (USA) 6-3, 6-7 (5/7), 6-3

Stay tuned to El-Balad for more updates on the exciting developments in Tokyo as the competition heats up, with Alcaraz seeking to capture another title despite his recent challenges.