Scouting Overview: Alcaraz and Fritz Shine in Tokyo; Sinner and Zverev Make Waves in Beijing
Your go-to guide for an exciting week ahead in tennis!
September 23, 2025
ATP Tour
As Carlos Alcaraz kicks off in Tokyo, Jannik Sinner and Alexander Zverev gear up in Beijing.
By ATP Staff
This week, tennis fans are in for a treat as Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner headline two major events.
In Tokyo, World No. 1 Carlos Alcaraz takes the spotlight at the Kinoshita Group Japan Open, with Taylor Fritz as the second seed. Meanwhile, Sinner is set to dazzle at the China Open in Beijing, where he faces tough competition, including the formidable Alexander Zverev.
As the ATP 500 events unfold, hopefuls for the Nitto ATP Finals are eager to secure essential points, setting their sights on a spot in Turin.
Here’s a closer look at what to watch this week:
FIVE HIGHLIGHTS IN TOKYO:
1) Alcaraz’s Tokyo Debut: For the first time, Alcaraz graces the longest-running ATP tournament in Asia. With seven titles under his belt this season and a stellar 61-6 record, he’s keen to reinforce his standing as World No. 1 after his triumph at the US Open.
2) Fritz’s Fond Memories: The American’s journey in Tokyo holds a special place in his heart; it was here that he made his Top 10 debut after clinching the title in 2022. Currently ranked No. 5, Fritz is on the hunt for his third title of 2025, matching his career-best from the previous season.
3) Pursuit of Turin: As the clock ticks down to the Nitto ATP Finals, players looking to break into the top eight are under immense pressure. Casper Ruud and Holger Rune, positioned at 13th and 15th respectively, hope strong showings in Tokyo will boost their chances.
4) Seeds Aiming for More: Tomas Machac, Ugo Humbert, Denis Shapovalov, and Frances Tiafoe round out the remaining seeds. Each has already claimed a title this year, with Shapovalov competing for the first time since marrying his partner, Mirjam Bjorklund.
5) Harrison/King’s Ambitious Pursuit: As the top seeds, Christian Harrison and Evan King are striving for their third ATP 500 title of the year. Having already triumphed in Dallas and Acapulco, they are determined to make their mark in Tokyo.
FIVE HIGHLIGHTS IN BEIJING:
1) Sinner’s Return to Victory: After a runner-up finish at the US Open, Sinner is back in Beijing, owning a remarkable 9-1 record from his previous visits. Last year, he pushed Alcaraz to the limit and aims for redemption this time around.
2) Zverev’s Historic Runs: Making his sixth appearance in Beijing, Zverev seeks to replicate his success, having reached the semi-finals thrice. He leads Sinner 4-3 in their head-to-head encounters and hopes for another showdown in the finals.
3) Top-10 Showdown: The competition heats up with five Top-10 athletes, including Sinner, Zverev, Alex de Minaur, Lorenzo Musetti, and Karen Khachanov. Each brings unique momentum into the tournament, creating an electrifying atmosphere.
4) Fan Favorites in Action: Andrey Rublev and Daniil Medvedev will be among the featured performers. Rublev, a two-time quarter-finalist, is coming off of a successful title run, while Medvedev, fresh from a new coaching team, aims to push for another title.
5) Doubles Teams Eyeing Turin: The doubles landscape in Beijing includes standout duos like Wimbledon champions Julian Cash and Lloyd Glasspool, who have already secured a spot in Turin, alongside fellow qualifiers Marcelo Arevalo and Mate Pavic. Expect thrilling matches as singles stars also compete in doubles.
