TOKYO – Carlos Alcaraz suffered an ankle injury but recovered to defeat Sebastian Baez 6-4, 6-2 in the second round of the Japan Open on Thursday.
World No. 1 said he was “scared” when he fell 2-2 in the first set. Alkaraz rubbed her eyes and grabbed her left ankle in visible discomfort.
“When I planted my ankles, I wasn’t feeling well at first, so I was worried,” Alkaraz said. “I’m happy that I’ve played good tennis and finished the match very well. I’m going to try and recover so I can prepare for the next round.”
Alcaraz needed a strap before continuing the match and securing a place in the third round.
“I was worried that I wasn’t sure I would finish the game, but Physio came and did some tests,” he said. “I was able to walk to the bench and it gave me confidence. I am trying to have a warrior mentality in every match, in every aspect.”