Carlos Alcaraz beats Brandon Nakashima to reach semifinals at Japan Open

Carlos Alcaraz continued his supremacy on the court, registering a 6-2, 6-4 win against the USA’s Brandon Nakashima on Sunday to reach the semifinals of the Japan Open. This was Alcaraz’s 65th win of the ongoing season, helping him equal his personal-best tally in a single season (set in 2023).

The Spaniard came up with a potent baseline and net game, producing thundering forehands one after the other. 

“It’s great to go through, to play another semi-final,” said Alcaraz in his post-match interview. “It’s special because it’s the first time I am playing here in Japan and here in Tokyo, so to reach the semi-finals in my first appearance is something great.”

Meanwhile, Alcaraz had three match points at 5-3 in the second set but failed to grab them. However, Alcaraz was able to hold his serve comfortably in the next game to close out the match.

“I always say that closing a match is difficult. Even tougher when you had match points, like I did when I was returning,” said Alcaraz. “Losing that game, I thought it was going to be really difficult, but I just tried to maintain my focus and play some great points in the last game. I don’t think I’ve played a last game like this, so I’m really happy about it.”

Alcaraz admitted he is in great form and he is having a fantastic time on the tour as he is full of confidence.

“Probably [it’s the best period of my career]. I’m just feeling great on court, every time I step on the court,” said Alcaraz. “I just think I can do everything. I’m approaching the end of the season with a lot of confidence and these kinds of matches, this kind of level, helps a lot to keep the confidence high.

“I’m just trying to set up goals before matches, before tournaments, and trying to follow those goals. I think that helps me a lot to play great tennis and maintain the focus during the match.”

Alcaraz will face Norway’s Casper Ruud in the semifinal on Monday.