Sampras’s 1994 Benchmarking Shadows Alcaraz
Carlos Alcaraz enters the Japan Open seeking to become the first man to successfully defend the singles title in Tokyo since Pete Sampras accomplished the feat in 1994. The Spaniard captured his maiden tournament crown on debut last year by defeating American Taylor Fritz in straight sets, 6-4, 6-4.
While Roger Federer, Novak Djokovic, and Rafael Nadal have all hoisted the Tokyo trophy during their careers, none managed to secure back-to-back championships.
Nadal’s 2011 Bid Ended by Murray
Rafael Nadal came closer than any of those contemporaries to defending the title. The 22-time major champion triumphed on his first appearance in the Japanese capital in 2010, defeating Gael Monfils 6-1, 7-5 in the final.
“I want to finish the season well and winning titles is a perfect way to finish,” Nadal said after that victory. “It’s difficult to keep winning. I have to enjoy these moments because you never know when they will end.”
Nadal returned to the championship match the following year in 2011, defeating Go Soeda, Milos Raonic, Santiago Giraldo, and Mardy Fish en route to the final. However, Andy Murray halted the defense with a 3-6, 6-2, 6-0 victory.
“Andy played unbelievable. He deserves the title,” Nadal said after the loss. “I’ve lost a few sets 6-0 of course. You prefer it doesn’t happen, but he played fantastic and in the third set he started to play at a really high level.”
Thursday Opening Against Michelsen
Carlos Alcaraz begins his title defense against US Open quarter-finalist Alex Michelsen on Thursday at 4:00 pm local time in Tokyo. For fans watching from Spain, the match starts at 9:00 am, while viewers in Michelsen’s home state of California face a midnight start time on Thursday.
Alcaraz Could Face Matteo Arnaldi in Second Round
The winner between Alcaraz and Michelsen advances to face Roland Garros semi-finalist Matteo Arnaldi in the second round. Arnaldi secured his spot by defeating wildcard Rei Sakamoto. Alcaraz holds a 2-0 career head-to-head record against the Italian player.
Who Is the Last Player to Defend the Title?
Who is the last tennis player to successfully defend the Japan Open men’s singles title?
Pete Sampras is the last player to achieve the feat, successfully defending his title in 1994.
What is the tournament path for Carlos Alcaraz after the first round?
If Alcaraz defeats Alex Michelsen, he will face Matteo Arnaldi in the second round, with a potential match looming against Alejandro Tabilo, who defeated Tommy Paul 6-1, 6-2 in his opening fixture.
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