Carlos Alcaraz Reaches Japan Open Final After Defeating Casper Ruud

World number one Carlos Alcaraz continued his impressive 2025 campaign by overcoming Casper Ruud 3-6, 6-3, 6-4 in the Japan Open semifinals, securing his ninth consecutive ATP final and tenth of the season. Despite a slow start and carrying a minor ankle injury, Alcaraz adjusted his game, reducing unforced errors and improving his serve to rally back and claim victory. His win sets up a final showdown against American Taylor Fritz, who previously defeated Alcaraz at the Laver Cup, marking the first time in 14 years that the top two seeds will compete for the Tokyo title. Alcaraz acknowledged Fritz's strong recent form but expressed excitement for the challenge, aiming for his eighth title of the year. The match highlighted Alcaraz's resilience and tactical adaptability, as he fought through moments of frustration and physical discomfort to maintain his dominant season. This milestone also made Alcaraz the fastest player to achieve 275 ATP-level match wins, underscoring his rapid rise in men's tennis.