The world No. 4 announced the decision on Friday in a video message to fans. Shelton, who claimed his first ATP Tour title in Tokyo in 2023, expressed disappointment at being unable to return to a tournament he holds in high regard.
“I have some bad news. Sadly I won’t be coming to the Japan Open this year,” Shelton said. “I was really looking forward to seeing all my fans there again this year. It’s a tournament that I love, it’s my first ATP title and I always look forward to playing there.
“The US Open and Davis Cup took a toll on my body and I’m not going to be able to make it. The good news is that I hope to be back next year. I appreciate all your guys’ love and support and hopefully see you in 2027.”
Shelton recently reached his first Grand Slam final at the US Open, adding to an already impressive 2026 season in which he has compiled a 39-16 win-loss record and captured four titles, including a Masters 1000 crown in Montreal.
The left-hander holds a strong 7-1 career record in Tokyo and has fond memories of the event where he first tasted ATP success. His absence removes one of the top seeds from the ATP 500 tournament, which begins on 30 September.
Among the players still entered are world No. 1 contender Carlos Alcaraz and fellow American Taylor Fritz. The field will now adjust following Shelton’s late withdrawal.
The decision prioritises recovery after a long and physically taxing stretch that included a deep run at the US Open followed by Davis Cup commitments. Shelton has emphasised his intention to return to Tokyo in 2027, underlining the special place the tournament holds in his career.
Fans in Japan will miss one of the most popular and exciting players on the tour, but the American’s focus remains on ensuring he is fully fit for the remainder of the season and beyond.