Heading into his Japan Open debut, things got messy for Carlos Alcaraz . The Spaniard had just stepped off the US Open with his second title and reclaimed the World No. 1 ranking. Now he was back on tour, taking on Sebastian Baez in Tokyo. The opening round was already tricky with rain delays and wet courts. Then came the scare, Carlos slipped in the first set and sparked real concern as he looked in pain. But he’s No. 1 for a reason. He fought through and scored a straight-set victory, though the tumble left him a little rattled.

On Monday, the drama hit early. At 2-2 in the first set against Baez, Alcaraz went down hard. Stretching wide for a forehand, the 22-year-old stumbled on the baseline and clutched his left ankle and heel in agony. He stayed down, grimacing, eyes darting toward

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