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**Alcaraz Overcomes Ankle Scare to Advance at Japan Open**
TOKYO – World No. 1 Carlos Alcaraz suffered an ankle injury scare in his second-round match at the Japan Open on Thursday, but battled through the pain to defeat Sebastian Baez 6-4, 6-2.
The incident occurred in the first set with the score tied at 2-2 when Alcaraz twisted his left ankle. Visibly shaken, the young Spaniard clutched his ankle and appeared distressed. “When I planted the ankle, I was worried, because it didn’t feel good at the beginning,” Alcaraz admitted.
Following a medical timeout and the application of supportive strapping, Alcaraz remarkably returned to the court. He managed to regain his composure and dominate the remainder of the match, securing his place in the third round.
“I was worried that I wouldn’t have the confidence to finish the match, but the physio came and did some tests,” Alcaraz explained. “It was good I could walk to the bench, and that gave me confidence.”
Despite the initial fear, Alcaraz expressed optimism about his recovery. “I’m just happy that I was able to play good tennis after that and finish the match quite good. I will try to recover to do whatever it takes to be ready for the next round,” he said, showcasing his determination. “I’m trying to have a warrior mentality in every match, in every aspect of everything.”
Alcaraz’s ability to overcome the injury and continue playing has been praised, but his condition will be closely monitored as he prepares for his next match.
First Piper 