Carlos Alcaraz Into Japan Open Semifinals As Denis Shapovalov’s Hip Injury Ends Quarterfinal

Carlos Alcaraz moved into the semifinals of the Japan Open on Sunday after defending champion Denis Shapovalov retired with a hip injury, as the top seed continued his comeback from a four-month wrist injury layoff.

Alcaraz was leading 7-6 (4), 2-1 after 82 minutes when Shapovalov was forced to call it a day. The Spaniard, who returned to competitive tennis recently after recovering from his wrist problem, will now face compatriot Jaume Munar for a place in the final.

The quarterfinal began as a fiercely contested battle, with Shapovalov refusing to give Alcaraz any easy openings. The Canadian earned a set point at 5-4, but Alcaraz produced a delicate drop shot to escape the danger before taking control in the tiebreak.

The Spaniard's ability to absorb pressure and change the pace of the rallies proved crucial in a physically demanding opening set, which lasted nearly an hour.

However, Shapovalov's challenge faded early in the second set. While stretching for a running forehand, the Canadian appeared to hurt his hip. He took an off-court medical timeout after the opening game but returned visibly restricted.

With his movement severely affected, Shapovalov struggled to continue the baseline exchanges and eventually decided to retire, bringing an otherwise compelling quarterfinal to an abrupt end.

For Alcaraz, the result provides another boost as he builds momentum following his lengthy injury absence. The 23-year-old had already gained confidence at the Laver Cup last week, helping Europe win the title with a singles victory over Taylor Fritz.

Munar, meanwhile, booked his semifinal spot with an impressive 6-4, 6-2 victory over French qualifier Kyrian Jacquet earlier on Sunday.

The all-Spanish semifinal promises another test for Alcaraz as he looks to turn his return to the tour into another deep run in Tokyo.