Alcaraz Advances to Japan Open Semifinal After Retirement

Carlos Alcaraz advanced to the Japan Open semifinals in Tokyo on Sunday after Denis Shapovalov retired from their quarterfinal with an injury while trailing 7-6, 2-1. The match lasted 82 minutes, leaving Alcaraz one win from a place in the final as he pursues a second consecutive title at the tournament. The opening set was closely contested. Shapovalov built a 5-3 lead, but Alcaraz fought back and took the set in a tiebreak after saving a set point. Alcaraz said afterward that his serving had frustrated him, but he was pleased with how he responded after being broken. He described the set as featuring strong points and rallies. Shapovalov appeared to be hurt early in the second set and received treatment off court. He tried to continue, but ended the match with Alcaraz leading 2-1 in the set. The available reports differ on the precise location of the injury, and no medical diagnosis or confirmed recovery timeline was provided. Alcaraz acknowledged that advancing through an opponent’s retirement was not the outcome he wanted. After the match, he wrote “Be back soon, Denis” on a courtside camera. He also said he hoped Shapovalov would be able to return to competition healthy.