Alcaraz Advances to First Final Since Wrist Injury Return at the Japan Open

Tokyo, Japan — Carlos Alcaraz, the 22‑year‑old Spanish star who has climbed to world No. 3, will contest his first final since returning from a four‑month‑plus wrist injury at the Japan Open. After a dramatic comeback win over compatriot Jaume Munar in the semi‑finals, Alcaraz set up a clash with Czech qualifier Jiri Lehecka on Tuesday at Ariake Coliseum.

Alcaraz’s Injury Return and Path to the Final

Alcaraz missed much of the 2024 season after undergoing surgery on his right wrist in late August. He returned at the US Open, reaching the fourth round before a grueling midnight loss to Ben Shelton. Since that tournament, he has been wearing a compression sleeve on his right arm during matches.

“I’m still building up match fitness after such a long break,” Alcaraz said after his Tokyo win. “The wrist feels better, and I’m happy to be back competing at this level.” His most recent results include a quarter‑final showing at the US Open and a warm‑up appearance at the Japan Open, where he earned his spot in the championship match.

A Nervous Start, Then a Resurgence

Alcaraz’s semi‑final against Munar was a study in contrasts. After breaking to lead 3‑2 in the opening set, he lost 16 points in a row — the first set 5‑7 and the early part of the second set 0‑2. “I don’t know what happened in the first set. It feels like I’m having trouble in every first set… But I’ve come back each time, and I’m really happy about that,” he remarked.

The Spaniard recovered with breaks at 5‑5 and 7‑5 in the second set, then dominated 6‑1 in the final game to secure a 6‑3, 6‑1 victory. His comeback included a series of aggressive serves and baseline rallies that re‑established his confidence.

Upcoming Challenge Against Jiri Lehecka

Lehecka earned his spot in the final with a straight‑sets win over top‑seed Valentin Vacherot, 6‑4, 6‑2. The Czech’s aggressive baseline play and strong backhand have seen him rise to No. 78 in the ATP rankings. Beating Alcaraz would be a career‑defining moment for the 21‑year‑old.

Lehecka’s Road to the Semi‑Finals

Lehecka entered the tournament as a qualifier, navigating three rounds of qualifying before toppling veteran Taylor Fritz in the first round of the main draw. His run included a convincing quarter‑final victory over former top‑10 player Lucas Pouille and a semi‑final upset of Stefanos Tsitsipas in three sets.

What This Match Means for Alcaraz’s Season

A victory would give Alcaraz his first title since the Monte Carlo Masters in April, before his injury. It would also re‑establish him near the top of the ATP rankings, potentially securing a spot in the upcoming ATP Finals. “Every match now counts, and I’m focused on playing my best tennis,” he said.

For Lehecka, the final represents a chance to make a splash on the global stage and earn a substantial ranking jump. “Playing against one of the best in the world would be an honor and a learning experience,” he noted after his semi‑final win.

Key Takeaways and Quotes

• Alcaraz’s 16‑point losing streak highlighted his early‑match struggles, but his mental toughness allowed a comeback.
• His return from wrist surgery showcases the modern player’s reliance on recovery tech and compression gear.
• Lehecka’s rise continues, positioning him as a top‑10 threat for 2025.
• The Japan Open final is slated for Tuesday, with a night start under Ariake’s lights.

“We’re just happy to be here and compete,” Alcaraz added. “The support from fans and the opportunity to play at this level is what drives me.”

The match will be broadcast worldwide, with the ATP returning to highlight the emergence of both a returning champion and a rising star.

Follow AP Tennis for live updates, player interviews, and post‑match analysis as the Japan Open heads into its climactic day.

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