Alcaraz first player since Pete Sampras to retain Japan Open
Tennis
Carlos Alcaraz became the first player since Pete Sampras to retain the Japan Open when he defeated Jiri Lehecka on October 6, 2026.
He beat Lehecka 7-6(4), 6-4.
Alcaraz described the mental resilience required during a five-month recovery from injury and said he anticipates competing in the Shanghai Masters next.
