TOKYO – World No. 1 Carlos Alcaraz experienced a worrying injury scare during his first-round match at the Japan Open in Tokyo today, requiring a medical timeout after appearing to hurt his left foot. The incident occurred mid-point in the fifth game of his match against Argentina’s Sebastian Baez, causing the US Open champion to fall to the ground in pain.
Alcaraz received prompt medical attention on court, with trainers seen strapping his left ankle and the bottom of his left foot. Despite the visible discomfort and the immediate concern, the Spaniard ultimately continued the match.
The Incident: Alcaraz’s Frightening Fall
The unsettling moment unfolded early in the highly anticipated first-round clash. Alcaraz, who had started the match strongly and secured an early break, was in the fifth game of the first set with the score tied 2-2. As he moved across the court during a rally, he pulled up sharply, taking several hobbled steps before falling to his back and covering his face. Initial observations suggested a possible ankle roll or an issue with his Achilles tendon.
The match was immediately halted as medical personnel rushed to his aid. Alcaraz was seen clutching his left foot, clearly in distress. The medical timeout lasted several minutes as his ankle and foot were taped.
Continuing the Match Amidst Concern
Despite the visible pain and the strapping applied, Alcaraz made the decision to continue playing against Baez. This immediately raised questions among fans and commentators about the extent of the injury and the potential long-term implications for his performance in the tournament and upcoming events. While he resumed play, his movement was under close scrutiny for the remainder of the match.
Implications for the Japan Open and Beyond
The injury scare casts a shadow over Alcaraz’s debut at the Japan Open, a tournament he chose as his first Asian swing event this year, citing a desire to explore a new country and event. Alcaraz arrived in Tokyo fresh off his US Open victory, where he reclaimed the World No. 1 ranking, and a recent appearance at the Laver Cup.
This incident marks another moment of physical concern for Alcaraz in what has been an intense 2025 season. He previously withdrew from the Canadian Open due to “small muscle issues” and sustained a right adductor tear and left hamstring injury earlier in the year, leading to his withdrawal from the Madrid Open. While he continued to play in Tokyo, the immediate future and his participation in subsequent rounds will likely depend on how he recovers from this latest setback.
Fans and the tennis world will be eagerly awaiting updates on the extent of Alcaraz’s injury as he navigates the demanding ATP tour calendar.
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