Alcaraz rallies past Munar to reach Japan Open final

Carlos Alcaraz rallied from a set down to defeat fellow Spaniard Jaume Munar 5-7, 6-3, 6-1 on Monday and reach the Japan Open final, keeping his title defense alive after a difficult opening set. Alcaraz, the defending champion, had led 5-3 in the first set after breaking Munar’s serve, but lost four consecutive games as Munar took the opener. Alcaraz then broke to start the second set and regained control, forcing a deciding set before winning the match in two hours and 31 minutes, according to one report. The world No. 3 said afterward that he did not know why he had struggled after taking the early lead. He said he was pleased with how he recovered, and that making breaks early in the second set helped him gain confidence. Alcaraz said he played more aggressively and tried to prevent Munar from dictating the points. Munar, ranked 49th, kept the opening set competitive and took advantage of Alcaraz’s errors and uncertain service games. Alcaraz’s play improved as the match progressed, and he dominated the final set to complete the comeback. The victory extended his Japan Open winning streak to nine matches, according to one account.