Carlos Alcaraz Withdraws from French Open Due to Injury

Two-time defending champion Carlos Alcaraz will not compete in the French Open next month due to a wrist injury. The world number two withdrew from the Barcelona Open after injuring his right wrist in the first round.

Alcaraz, 22, underwent tests to assess the severity of his injury. Following these results, he announced his withdrawal from the Italian Open and the French Open to focus on recovery.

“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,” Alcaraz posted on Instagram. He expressed that this is a challenging time but remains optimistic about returning stronger.

Alcaraz began 2023 by winning his first Australian Open title, becoming the youngest man to complete the career Grand Slam. He had a successful clay season last year, winning titles in Monte Carlo, Rome, and Roland Garros, and reached the final in Barcelona.

Having lost the world number one ranking to rival Jannik Sinner after a defeat in the Monte Carlo final, Alcaraz’s absence may affect his standing in the rankings. This situation also presents an opportunity for Sinner to pursue his own career Grand Slam, with only the French Open title missing from his collection.

Alcaraz has missed only one Grand Slam since qualifying for his first in 2021, which was the 2023 Australian Open due to a hamstring injury. He and Sinner have been dominant forces in men’s tennis, with each winning the last nine Grand Slam titles between them.

After his victory over Benjamin Bonzi at the Madrid Open, Sinner expressed his thoughts on Alcaraz’s injury. “It is very sad news,” Sinner said, adding that it is essential for young players to prioritize their health.