Alcaraz to face Michelsen in ATP Japan Open first round in Tokyo; broadcast details

Carlos Alcaraz will open his ATP Japan Open title defence against Alex Michelsen in a first-round match at Ariake Tennis Forest Park in Tokyo on Thursday, October 1. Play is scheduled to begin at 4:00 PM local time (12:30 PM IST).

Alcaraz is the defending champion after winning the Tokyo title on his debut last year. This tournament is only his third event since returning from nearly five months out with a right wrist injury. He reached the US Open quarter-finals before losing to Ben Shelton of the USA and then took part in the Laver Cup, helping Team Europe win in London.

Michelsen, the 22-year-old American ranked 34th, arrives in Tokyo following his first major quarter-final appearance in New York. In that run he served against Frances Tiafoe and ultimately fell in a five-set match. The two players have never met on the ATP Tour.

Michelsen’s game is described as built around his serve, with first-strike power that can trouble opponents on faster courts. Alcaraz remains the clear favourite on paper, but questions have been raised about whether a quick turnaround from the Laver Cup leaves him fully match-ready for his opening match.

The match will be played on the outdoor hard courts at Ariake Tennis Forest Park. Indian viewers can watch live on Tennis TV and Fancode; UK coverage is on Sky Sports and Discovery+; US broadcasters are ESPN and Tennis Channel with streaming on ESPN+ and Fubo. Fans worldwide can follow the event through their respective local broadcasters.

The contest is a first-round fixture at the ATP Japan Open on Thursday, October 1, at Ariake Tennis Forest Park in Tokyo; the winner will move on to the tournament’s next stage.