Two-time champion Carlos Alcaraz will miss next month’s French Open because of a wrist injury.
The world number two picked up the problem in his right wrist during his first round win at the Barcelona Open. He later pulled out of that event. After medical tests, he has now withdrawn from both the Italian Open and the French Open.
“After the results of the tests carried out today, we have decided that the most prudent thing to do is to be cautious and not participate in Rome or Roland Garros, while we assess the situation to determine when we can return to the court,” Alcaraz posted on Instagram.
“This is a difficult time for me, but I am sure we will come out of this stronger.”
The 22 year old started the year in great form. He won his first Australian Open title. That made him the youngest man to complete the career Grand Slam. He was expected to build on that form during the clay season.
Last year, Alcaraz dominated on clay. He won titles in Monte Carlo, Rome and Roland Garros. He also reached the final in Barcelona.
He recently lost the world number one ranking to his rival Jannik Sinner. The Italian beat him in the Monte Carlo final. With Alcaraz now out, Sinner could extend his lead in the rankings.
It also gives Sinner a chance to complete his own career Grand Slam. The French Open is the only major title he has not won yet.
Since his first Grand Slam in 2021, Alcaraz has missed only one before this. That came at the 2023 Australian Open due to a hamstring injury.
Alcaraz and Sinner have led men’s tennis in recent years. They have shared the last nine Grand Slam titles. Alcaraz won five, while Sinner took four.
Speaking after beating Benjamin Bonzi in Madrid, Sinner showed support for his rival.
“It is very sad news,” Sinner said.
“Being that young like he is and like I am, we need to look at our bodies first before worse things [happen].
“Hopefully he can be back for Wimbledon and we all hope for great battles in the future.”
