Taylor Fritz is set to begin his Japan Open campaign on Thursday morning.
Fritz, a former US Open finalist, has been handed a difficult draw in the capital; he will face former world number 33 Jaume Munar in the first round.
Fritz has been one of the most successful American players in Japan Open history, registering multiple strong campaigns at the ATP 500 event in Tokyo.
How does Fritz’s Japan Open record compare to that of Pete Sampras?
Taylor Fritz and Pete Sampras at the Japan Open
Pete Sampras is quite possibly the most accomplished American player in Japan Open history.
The American star captured three Japan Open titles between 1993 and 1996, beating Brad Gilbert, Michael Chang and Richey Reneberg in the respective finals.
| Year | Champion | Runner-up | Score |
| 1993 | Pete Sampras | Brad Gilbert | 6–2, 6–2, 6–2 |
| 1994 | Pete Sampras | Michael Chang | 6–4, 6–2 |
| 1996 | Pete Sampras | Richey Reneberg | 6–4, 7–5 |
Only Stefan Edberg, a seven-time major champion, has won more Japan Open Men’s Singles titles than Sampras in tournament history. Edberg won four titles between 1987 and 1992, with his only loss in that stretch occurring against John McEnroe in the 1988 final.
In comparison, Taylor Fritz has made two appearances in the Japan Open final.
The 11-time ATP Tour champion emerged victorious in his first final appearance, defeating compatriot Frances Tiafoe 7-6, 7-6.
Three years later, Fritz found himself in the final against world number one Carlos Alcaraz.
Alcaraz proved too strong for Fritz – who struggled with a left thigh issue – winning 6-4, 6-4.
Fritz was quick to laud his opponent after suffering defeat in the 2025 Japan Open final.
“First off, just wanna say congrats to Carlos on the tournament,” Fritz said during his runner’s-up speech.
“He’s the best player in the world for a reason, and he’s also a great guy. I’m happy for all the success he’s having.”
Following a successful Laver Cup campaign, Alcaraz has returned to the Japan Open seeking to become the first man since Pete Sampras in 1994 to successfully defend the title.
Alcaraz has been handed a very difficult draw in Tokyo and will play US Open quarter-finalist Alex Michelsen in the first round.
If Alcaraz beats Michelsen, he will play either Rei Sakamoto or Roland Garros semi-finalist Matteo Arnaldi in the second round.
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