Carlos Alcaraz secured his place in the final of the 2026 Atp 500 di Tokyo on Monday, overcoming a difficult start to defeat compatriot Jaume Munar 5-7, 6-3, 6-1 in Tokyo.
How Alcaraz Reversed the Match After a First-Set Collapse
Alcaraz claimed the first service break of the opening set in the seventh game to pull ahead 5-3, but his level dropped significantly as he approached the finish line. Holding a 5-4 advantage, the top seed suffered a sudden collapse, losing 14 points. Two consecutive double faults handed Munar the opening frame 7-5.
The second set brought an immediate exchange of service breaks before Alcaraz reasserted control in the third game. He managed the set until 6-3. The deciding third set became a completely one-sided affair.
Alcaraz Struggles with Slow Starts in First Sets
When asked about his slow starts in recent rounds, the Spanish star admitted uncertainty: The blackout at the end of the first partial?
I don’t know what’s happening to me lately in the first sets, I’m struggling.
Carlos Alcaraz also stated: I’m happy with how I reacted all week,
and added: In the second set I tried to play well especially the first games, and once I gained confidence I was more aggressive.
Match statistics underlined that Alcaraz managed just 34 percent of points won on his second delivery against 44 percent for the world number 49. Alcaraz won 77 percent of points with his first serve compared to 61 percent for Jaume. Alcaraz advanced to his 36th career ATP final and his fourth of the 2026 season, keeping alive his bid to defend the Tokyo title. Alcaraz also achieved his 30th win of the season.
Next Steps at the Tokyo Open
Alcaraz faces Czech player Jiri Lehecka in the championship match. Lehecka advanced to the final by defeating Valentin Vacherot in straight sets, 6-4, 6-2, without facing a single break point. The final marks Alcaraz’s first appearance in a tour-level title match since April 2026 at the Monte-Carlo Masters, where he finished as runner-up to Jannik Sinner. Lehecka reached his eighth career final, his second of the year following the one against Sinner in Miami, while Alcaraz aims to repeat his victory from a year ago when he beat American Taylor Fritz with a double 6-4.
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