Japan Open 2026: Carlos Alcaraz rallies past Jaume Munar into final

Carlos Alcaraz in action during his semifinal against Jaume Munar. | Photo Credit: REUTERS

Defending champion Carlos Alcaraz overcame early wobbles ​on his serve to outclass ‌fellow Spaniard Jaume Munar 5-7 ​6-3 6-1 and reach ⁠the Japan Open final on Monday, taking a step towards his ‌first singles title after his comeback from a ‌wrist injury.

Alcaraz completed the ‌career ⁠Grand Slam by capturing ⁠the Australian Open title in February but sustained the injury two months ​later, and ‌he only returned at the US Open, where a quarter-final run hinted at a swift ‌return to form.

The 23-year-old, ​who moved through the gears during Team Europe’s ⁠triumphant Laver Cup campaign last month, was cruising against Munar ‌in Tokyo at 5-4 before gifting the opening set to his opponent with two shaky service games.

After a sluggish start to the next ‌set, Alcaraz raised his level ​to force a decider and the seven-times major champion ⁠wore Munar down with stunning ⁠shot-making to set up a title clash with either ‌Jiri Lehecka or Valentin Vacherot on Tuesday.