Carlos Alcaraz has sent another warning to his rivals after successfully defending his Japan Open title in Tokyo.
The Spaniard defeated Czech player Jiri Lehecka 7 6, 6 4 in Tuesday's final, securing another major trophy after a difficult period away from competition.
Reuters reports that Alcaraz had been sidelined for nearly five months because of a wrist injury. His victory in Tokyo therefore carries extra significance as he attempts to rebuild momentum during the final part of the season.
The 23 year old did not dominate every stage of the tournament, but he produced his best tennis when it mattered most in the final.
The victory makes Alcaraz the first man since Pete Sampras in 1993 and 1994 to win consecutive Tokyo titles.
It is also the 27th title of his career.
Alcaraz is now expected to turn his attention to the Shanghai Masters, where another strong performance could confirm that his difficult injury period is firmly behind him.
