Full Breakdown
Carlos Alcaraz Withdraws from 2026 French Open Over Wrist Injury
4/25/2026, 3:07:02 AM
Alcaraz’s Withdrawal Announcement
On 24 April 2026, Carlos Alcaraz announced he will miss the Italian Open in Rome and the French Open at Roland Garros due to a right-wrist injury, ending his bid for a third consecutive title.
Injury Timeline and Medical Findings
The injury surfaced at the Barcelona Open on 14 April, where Alcaraz beat Otto Virtanen but felt sharp pain. He withdrew before his Round-of-16 match with Tomas Machac and pulled out of the Madrid Open. Scans on 24 April confirmed a serious issue.
Recent Form and Ranking Context
Alcaraz, 22, is a seven-time Grand Slam champion and ATP No. 2. He won the French Open in 2024 and 2025, the Australian Open in 2022, and a Doha title in February 2026.
Implications for the French Open and Rankings
Alcaraz’s withdrawal removes a top seed, giving world No. 1 Jannik Sinner a clear path to his first French Open title and widening Novak Djokovic’s chances. Alcaraz risks losing ranking points.
Official Statements from Alcaraz
Alcaraz said medical tests made skipping Rome and Roland Garros the prudent choice, described the situation as “complicated,” and expressed confidence in returning stronger. He noted that further medical evaluations will determine his next steps.
Criticism and Opposition
World No. 1 Jannik Sinner called Alcaraz’s absence “sad for tennis” and wished a swift recovery. Naomi Broady labeled the injury a “huge missed opportunity” that benefits Sinner’s ranking lead.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
UPI lists the French Open from 24 May–7 June, while AP and The Independent cite an 18 May start. The Italian Open start is reported as 5 May or 6 May. Some sources count seven Grand Slam titles; others list two French, two Wimbledon, two US Open and one Australian Open.
Verbatim Quotes
- “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 as we wait to evaluate the progress so we can decide when to return to the court,” — Carlos Alcaraz, Player
- “This is a difficult time for me, but I am sure we will come out of it stronger.” — Carlos Alcaraz, Player
- “Me being a competitor, I always want to play against the best in the world and he definitely is the best in the world here on this surface [clay].” — Jannik Sinner, World No. 1
- “The next [medical] test will be crucial.” — Carlos Alcaraz, Player (Laureus Awards)
- “It's a huge missed opportunity for him and gives Sinner the chance to pull away [as world No 1].” — Naomi Broady, Former British player
What’s Next
Alcaraz will continue physiotherapy, awaiting further tests before confirming a return. He hopes to be ready for Wimbledon (June 29–July 12) and the U.S. Open.
