Carlos Alcaraz confirmed on Thursday that he felt "mentally fresh" as he prepared for the Shanghai Masters tournament. The Spaniard secured victory at the Japan Open on Tuesday, defeating Jiri Lehecka with scores of 7-6 (7/4), 6-4 in the final match.
Alcaraz noted that his body was still adapting to the rigours of competitive matches after recovering from a wrist injury that kept him out from April until the US Open in August. Speaking to reporters, Alcaraz stated, “I’m feeling very good. Physically I’m well, I’m feeling mentally fresh,”.
His campaign in Shanghai will commence in the second round, where he faces either Juan Manuel Cerundolo of Argentina or qualifier Nicolas Mejia from Colombia. Jannik Sinner announced on Tuesday that he was concluding his 2026 season due to a knee injury.
Novak Djokovic told reporters in Shanghai that Sinner was “smart” to pause his season for recovery. Djokovic added that one must “think long-term,” suggesting that extending one's career years provides more opportunities to achieve goals.
On Tuesday, Djokovic claimed his 102nd career title in Beijing. The Serb will begin his tournament in the second round, facing Hubert Hurkacz of Poland.
