The Japan Open is bringing some serious star power to Tokyo this fall, and the prize money just got a major upgrade to match.
Carlos Alcaraz has confirmed he’ll play in the tournament running September 24-30. That’s pretty huge news for Japanese tennis fans.
The five-time Grand Slam winner’s decision to come to Tokyo instead of defending his title in Beijing has raised some eyebrows. The China Open runs at the same time and usually offers bigger prize money.
| Name | Age | Points | Stats 2024 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Carlos Alcaraz | 22 | 68,791 | 25 - 5 |
But the Japan Open organizers clearly wanted Alcaraz badly enough to make it worth his while.
This tournament has some serious history behind it. We’re talking about the oldest event on the ATP Tour, dating back to 1972. Novak Djokovic, Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, Andy Murray, Pete Sampras, and Jim Courier have all won here.
Big Money on the Table
The total prize pool sits at $2.2 million this year. That’s a significant jump from last year’s $1.8 million.
The champion walks away with $416,365 and 500 ranking points.
To put that in perspective, last year’s winner Arthur Fils earned $340,010. The French player beat compatriot Ugo Humbert in what people called an epic final.
The runner-up gets $224,035 and 330 points. Not bad for finishing second.
Semifinalists will pocket $119,395 and 200 points each. Last year, Holger Rune lost his semifinal to Fils in two really tight tiebreaks.
Even reaching the quarterfinals guarantees $61,000 and 100 ranking points.
Alcaraz’s Path Won’t Be Easy
Here’s something interesting about ATP 500 tournaments like this one – there are no byes for the top seeds. Everyone starts in the first round.
That means Alcaraz has to win his opening match just like everyone else. If he does, he’s guaranteed at least $32,560 and 50 ranking points.
Even players who lose in the first round don’t go home empty-handed. They’ll still earn $17,365, though no ranking points.
The entry list is stacked with talent. Ben Shelton, Jack Draper, Casper Ruud, Holger Rune, and Taylor Fritz are all confirmed to play.
Shelton actually won this tournament in 2023, so he knows what it takes to succeed in Tokyo.
Why This Tournament Matters
Beyond the prize money, this event carries real weight in the tennis world. It’s been a launching pad for careers and a proving ground for the sport’s biggest names.
The fact that Alcaraz chose Tokyo over Beijing suggests the organizers made him an offer he couldn’t refuse. His appearance fee was probably pretty substantial.
For tennis fans in Japan, this is a golden opportunity to see one of the sport’s brightest stars up close. Alcaraz has been on an incredible run lately, and seeing him play in person is something special.
The tournament runs for a full week, giving plenty of chances for upsets and breakthrough performances.
2025 Japan Open Prize Money & Points Breakdown
• Winner: $416,365 and 500 points
• Finalist: $224,035 and 330 points
• Semifinalists: $119,395 and 200 points
• Quarterfinalists: $61,000 and 100 points
• Second round: $32,560 and 50 points
• First round: $17,365 and 0 points
The increased prize money shows how serious the organizers are about maintaining their tournament’s prestige. With Alcaraz headlining and a strong supporting cast, this could be one of the most memorable Japan Opens in recent years.
 with increased prize money of $2.2M and $416,365 for the winner at the ATP 500 event.){kind=link}