Top Players Prepare for Japan Open Matches This Weekend

Tokyo, Japan — World No. 1 Carlos Alcaraz is set to face Zizou Bergs in the second round of the Japan Open at 4:30 a.m. ET on Saturday, September 27, 2025. The match takes place at Ariake Coliseum in Tokyo, which is 13 hours ahead of Eastern Time.

The bout will be broadcast on Tennis Channel, with live streaming available on various platforms. The Japan Open showcases some of the top talent in tennis, and Alcaraz is looking to extend his winning streak.

In a related story, a coalition of top-10 tennis players, including Alcaraz, sent a letter to the Grand Slam tournaments advocating for a larger share of revenues. The players aim to increase their share from 16% to 22% by 2030, offering specific benchmarks for tournament organizers.

Among the signatories of the letter are stars like Aryna Sabalenka, Iga Swiatek, Coco Gauff, and Jannik Sinner. The letter was sent on July 30 and requests improved compensation plans for players, which currently lack contributions to pension, health, and maternity benefits.

The discussions have included meetings among player representatives and officials from the All England Club, which hosts Wimbledon, as well as the USTA, Tennis Australia, and the French Tennis Federation. The players are working with Larry Scott, a consultant with a history in tennis governance.

The USTA responded promising to engage in direct discussions to enhance financial benefits for players, citing a recent 57% increase in the U.S. Open prize pool over the last five years.

This weekend’s matches will also feature Naomi Osaka, who will take on Aliaksandra Sasnovich in the second round of the China Open, scheduled for the same time, also airing on Tennis Channel. Both players are among the sport’s elite.