Alcaraz battles in Tokyo as Japanese great Nishikori calls time on career

Alcaraz overcame American Alex Michelsen 7-6(1), 4-6, 6-1 to reach the second round of the ATP 500 event.

The third-ranked Spaniard was far from his best and was broken five times by Michelsen, but raised his level when it mattered and pulled away in the deciding set to complete the two-hour, 31-minute victory.

Alcaraz arrived in Tokyo after helping Team Europe win the Laver Cup in London last weekend and admitted he struggled to adjust to the outdoor conditions after rain limited his preparation.

"It was a little bit frustrating, not being able to play my game, my style, and play aggressive... It was quite difficult but I'm just really happy to accept and understand how I had to play, and to get the win at the end. It was really important to have this feeling for the next round, to know what I have to do for the next matches."

While Alcaraz's title defence got off to a winning start, Nishikori's career came to an end in front of his home crowd.

The 36-year-old Japanese wildcard lost 6-4, 6-4 to American Frances Tiafoe in the first round, bringing the curtain down on a career that included 12 ATP titles and a career-high ranking of fourth in the world.

"Playing in Japan is always a special moment," Nishikori said. "I wish I could have put in a slightly more convincing performance. But I'm happy I kept fighting right to the end. I'm proud that I didn't give up and played right to the finish.

"A sense of loss welled up inside me because this is really my final match and I don't have a chance to play anymore."

Nishikori made history in 2014 by becoming the first Asian man to reach a Grand Slam singles final when he advanced to the US Open final. He also won an Olympic bronze medal at the 2016 Rio Games.

His career was repeatedly disrupted by injuries, including surgeries on his right elbow and hip. 

READ MORE: Kei Nishikori emotional ahead of career swansong at Japan Open