Carlos Alcaraz has given an update on the injury scare that nearly forced him out of the Japan Open.
The Spaniard took a hard fall in the fifth game of the opening set against Sebastian Baez, appearing to roll his ankle in the process.
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There was real concern about whether he’d be able to continue, but he went on to win 7-5, 6-2. Speaking after the match in Tokyo, Alcaraz offered an update on how he was feeling.
Alcaraz admits he was worried after early fall at Japan Open
Alcaraz spoke about his injury after booking his spot in the second round of the Japan Open.
“I was scared. I’m not gonna lie,” said Alcaraz about the fall that nearly derailed his entire tournament. “I felt my ankle and didn’t feel great,” he continued.
The World No. 1, who beat Baez 7-6 (7), 6-2, admitted he was just glad to get through the match.
“I will try to be ready for the next match,” he explained. “It was unlucky. In the first five minutes I thought I wouldn’t continue.”
Carlos Alcaraz’s numbers vs Sebastian Baez
Despite the early setback, Alcaraz managed to settle in quickly and didn’t show many signs of discomfort as the match progressed.
The Spaniard handled the Argentine opponent comfortably, losing only six games across two sets.
According to Sofascore, Alcaraz landed 77% of his first serves and won 72% of those points.
He also finished with a 10-point advantage over Baez, wrapping up the match with 60 points to move into the next round.
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