TOKYO – Carlos Alcaraz was injured and recovered and beat Sebastian Baez 6-4, 6-2 in the second round of the Japan Open on Thursday.
World One said he felt “feared” when he fell in the first set. Alcaraz rubbed his eyes and held his left ankle, causing him to feel noticeable discomfort.
“When I planted my ankle, I was worried because it didn’t feel good at the beginning,” Alkaraz said. “I was so happy to play well after that and finish the game well.
“I’m going to try to recover to prepare for anything for the next round.”
Alcaraz needs straps before continuing to play and gain a spot in the third round.
“I’m worried I don’t have the confidence to finish the game, but physiology comes and does some tests,” he said. “Very good, I can walk to the bench, which gives me confidence. I want to have a fighter mentality in every game in every aspect.”
