World No1 Carlos Alcaraz has withdrawn from the Shanghai Masters just hours after lifting the Japan Open title, citing "physical problems".
The Spaniard claimed his eighth trophy of 2025 with a commanding 6-4, 6-4 victory over Taylor Fritz on his Tokyo debut. But less than two hours after celebrating, Alcaraz confirmed he would not continue his Asia tour.
The 22-year-old has enjoyed a remarkable campaign, leading the ATP Tour with 67 match wins. However his focus has now shifted to his health.
Reflecting on his season, Alcaraz said: “It’s been my best season so far without a doubt. Eight titles, 10 finals. That shows how hard I’ve worked just to be able to experience these moments and accomplish my goals.
“I didn’t start the year that good, struggling emotionally, so how I came back from that, I’m just really proud of myself, and of all the people around me who have helped me to be in this position.”
Fritz, meanwhile, was hampered by his own fitness problems throughout the final. The American fought bravely but looked restricted for long spells and could only summon a brief late rally as Alcaraz closed out the match in straight sets.
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Hours after the victory, Alcaraz turned to social media to announce his withdrawal from Shanghai. “I’m very disappointed to announce that I won’t be able to play the Rolex Shanghai Masters this year,” he told fans on social media.
“Unfortunately, I’ve been struggling with some physical issues and, after discussing with my team, we believe the best decision is to rest and recover. I was really looking forward to playing in front of the amazing fans in Shanghai again. I hope to be back soon and see my Chinese fans next year.”
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Carlos Alcaraz won the Japan Open just two hours before his announcement
|REUTERS
The decision comes after a scare earlier in Tokyo. During his first-round clash with Sebastian Baez, Alcaraz suffered a heavy fall, clutching his leg in pain and requiring medical attention.
His coaching staff urged him to pull out, but the Spaniard refused and battled on, eventually defeating Baez.
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That fighting spirit carried him through the rest of the tournament, where he dropped only one set – against Casper Ruud in the semi-final – before sealing the title.
This time, however, Alcaraz has accepted his team’s advice and prioritised rest to protect his long-term fitness.
Carlos Alcaraz has won two Grand Slams this season
|REUTERS
His absence means the Shanghai Masters will go ahead without its top seed, though Novak Djokovic and Jannik Sinner headline the field.
For Alcaraz, the focus is now firmly on recovery as he looks to extend what has already been a historic 2025 season.