Alcaraz Withdraws from Madrid Open Due to Injury
Carlos Alcaraz has withdrawn from the Madrid Open for the second consecutive year due to a right wrist injury sustained during his opening round match at the Barcelona Open last week. This absence has been described as a significant loss for the tournament by fellow competitor Jannik Sinner.
Sinner Comments on Impact of Alcaraz and Djokovic’s Absence
Jannik Sinner expressed that the absence of Carlos Alcaraz and Novak Djokovic makes a notable difference in the tournament's competitive landscape. Sinner, aiming to secure a record fifth consecutive Masters title, acknowledged the challenge the tournament faces without its two biggest stars.
“It’s a very tough thing for the tournament,” said Sinner. “Last year he didn’t play, so twice in a row is tough. And also Novak [Djokovic] is not here, it’s tough to swallow for the tournament. It is always different when Carlos and Novak are not in the draw. I would say [this situation is] unique because we have shared since last year a lot of tournaments.”
Alcaraz’s injury has prevented him from competing in his home country’s premier tennis event, marking a repeated setback. On Monday, he appeared at the Laureus Sports Awards in Madrid with his wrist in a cast, where he was honored with the World Sportsman of the Year award.
Alcaraz’s Future Plans and Roland Garros Considerations
During the Laureus event, Alcaraz was cautious about his participation in the upcoming Roland Garros tournament. Despite winning the French Open in the past two editions, his preparation has been hampered by injuries. He emphasized the importance of prioritizing his long-term health over immediate competition.
“We have a very long road ahead, many years in front,” said Alcaraz in his post-event press conference. “Forcing myself in this Roland Garros could hurt me a lot for the future. We’ll see what happens with the tests. I would prefer to return a bit later but very well, rather than rushing to return early and badly.”
Sinner’s Interaction with Alcaraz and Tournament Outlook
Sinner, who was also present at the Laureus Awards and nominated in the same category as Alcaraz, chose not to discuss the injury in detail with him, respecting his privacy. He expressed hope for Alcaraz’s swift recovery and acknowledged the impact of missing two of tennis’s biggest stars.
“I talked with him,” said Sinner. “We didn’t talk a lot about this topic. I think it’s also very, very private, so … But yeah, I think we all saw that he had a [cast] on. Hopefully it can help him to get back as soon as possible. It’s a very big pity to not have him here and also Novak, the two biggest stars in tennis. We still hope it’s going to be a good tournament, but of course not seeing them it makes a big difference.”
Sinner’s Opportunity Amidst Absences
With Alcaraz and Djokovic absent, Sinner sees an enhanced opportunity to claim his first Madrid Open title. Notably, Alcaraz and Djokovic are the only players to have defeated him at a Grand Slam since Wimbledon 2024. Sinner remains focused on the challenges ahead, taking the tournament one day at a time.
“I always go and it will always be: We go day by day. We have tough challenges in front of me, starting from the first day,” he said.
