Photo via Yahoo Sports

Carlos Alcaraz ends 32-year Japan Open wait with another Tokyo triumph

Carlos Alcaraz ended a 32-year drought at the Japan Open on Tuesday, securing his second consecutive title in Tokyo after defeating Jiří Lehecka in straight-sets finals. The victory marked Alcaraz’s third ATP title of 2026 and his first since a lengthy layoff following a right wrist injury that sidelined him for nearly five months.

His triumph also joined him in an exclusive club, as only two other men—including the legendary Pete Sampras—had previously defended the ATP 500 hard-court title. Alcaraz’s run included a dominant 6-4, 6-4 win over Taylor Fritz in last year’s final, but this year’s comeback was harder fought, with Lehecka taking an early lead in the first set before Alcaraz rallied to close out the match with clutch tiebreak points.

Despite inconsistent play at times, Alcaraz’s ability to deliver in key moments secured his place as one of the most consistent performers on the ATP Tour.

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