India, Oct. 1 -- Carlos Alcaraz began his Japan Open title defence with a hard-fought victory over Alex Michelsen in Tokyo on Thursday, October 1. The top-seeded Spaniard overcame the American 7-6(1), 4-6, 6-1 at the Ariake Colosseum to book his place in the second round. Alcaraz was forced to recover from an uneven second set, but found another gear in the decider to keep his campaign alive. The victory also marked his first competitive match at the Japan Open since lifting the trophy on debut last year.

What Happened In Carlos Alcaraz vs Alex Michelsen?

Alcaraz was made to work immediately by Michelsen, with the American refusing to allow the Spaniard to dictate rallies freely. The opening set went to a tiebreak after Alcaraz saved th...