Tokyo Open Preview

Last year, the competition struggled to draw prominent players, with Arthur Fils winning the championship after coming back from a set down to defeat Ugo Humbert in an exciting match that ended 5-7, 7-6, 6-3. This year, the organizers have made efforts to secure a roster of top-tier players, including world number one Carlos Alcaraz. Let’s take a closer look at the upcoming tournament.

Tokyo Open Preview

Carlos Alcaraz, the world number one, is entering this tournament after his victory over Jannik Sinner at the US Open. The 22-year-old Spaniard secured his second US Open title, reclaiming the top ranking. This will be his first time playing in Japan. Many expected him to participate in the Beijing Open instead, an ATP 1000 event, which typically holds greater prestige than the ATP 500 categorized Tokyo Open. His decision to play in Tokyo may be influenced by a strategy to prepare for the Shanghai Masters with a fresh body. Alcaraz has openly discussed the challenges of a busy tennis schedule and the need to approach it carefully to avoid injuries.

Fans will have high expectations for Alcaraz as he aims to deliver world-class tennis and win the title on his first attempt. If successful, he will join the ranks of Spanish male players who have won this title, following in the footsteps of Manuel Orantes (1977), David Ferrer (2007), and Rafael Nadal (2010). However, he will face stiff competition. American Ben Shelton, who has fond memories from his 2023 win in Tokyo, will be a strong contender. That year, Shelton won the title by overcoming Aslan Karatsev in the final after dropping just one set. After a disappointing third-round exit at the US Open due to injury, Shelton hopes to finish the year on a positive note following his triumph at the Canadian Open last month. Known for his powerful serve, the fast hard courts in Tokyo should suit his playing style.

Another former champion, Taylor Fritz, is also a formidable contender. In 2022, he played exceptionally well throughout the tournament, ultimately defeating Frances Tiafoe 7-6, 7-6 in an all-American final. In last year’s tournament, he was eliminated in the Round of 32 by the eventual winner, Fils, despite winning the first set. The 27-year-old has had a solid season, performing well in major tournaments, making him a favorite to win again. Last year’s finalist, Ugo Humbert, is expected to put on an impressive show as well, given his successful history on hard surfaces.

Other notable players include former world number four Holger Rune, along with Casper Ruud, Tomas Machac, and Jiri Lehecka.

Prize Money

The event offers a total prize purse of $2,226,470, an increase from last year’s $1,818,380. The champion will receive $416,376.

Past Champions

– 2024: Arthur Fils

– 2023: Ben Shelton

– 2022: Taylor Fritz

– 2020 & 2021: No Competition due to COVID-19

– 2019: Novak Djokovic

– 2018: Daniil Medvedev