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Alcaraz Withdraws, Rusedski Says Sinner Set for Triple Sweep

5/1/2026

Summary

Sinner Faces Pressure

Carlos Alcaraz withdrew with a wrist injury, leaving Jannik Sinner facing expectations in Italy.
Former British No 1 Greg Rusedski said Alcaraz’s absence will put a new wave of pressure on Sinner.
Rusedski predicted Sinner will win the French Open, Madrid Open and Italian Open.
He said a clean-sweep would be historic, potentially giving Sinner all nine Masters titles and all four Grand Slams at age, benefiting men’s tennis.

Summary

Alcaraz Skips Italian

Carlos Alcaraz confirmed he will miss the Italian Open and cannot defend French Open title after a wrist tendon injury.
He appeared in Madrid wearing a cast on the injured tendon at an awards ceremony.
Alcaraz cheered brother Jamie’s 6-3, 6-3 win over Pol Mas in the Mutua Madrid Open debut, posting “Proud” on Instagram.
He warned that media attention could burden Jamie and asked fans to give him space.

Summary

Sinner Streaks

Jannik Sinner's live points rose to 13,750 after his Madrid semi-final win.
Wins at Indian Wells, Madrid and Monte Carlo gave him a 21-match streak and a chance at four straight Masters 1000 titles.
He reported pain, fatigue and nervousness from the 21 matches, emphasizing the need for nutrition and rest.
Carlos Alcaraz withdrew after a Barcelona first-round loss and will miss the next three Masters because of a wrist injury.

Summary

Alcaraz Withdraws

Carlos Alcaraz, player, withdrew from the Barcelona Open after a wrist pop, ending his season and French Open defence.
Spanish media report he suffers tenosynovitis, the same condition that once hampered Rafael Nadal, champion.
Doctors advise rest and wrist use, warning that play could tear tendon and end his career.
Greg Rusedski, former pro, urged him to prioritize health and Wimbledon, comparing the issue to former finalist Juan Martin del Potro’s wrist injury.

History

Historical Context

In 2021 Rafael Nadal started his campaign at the Australian Open but withdrew from the Barcelona Open in April because of injury, missing the French Open and ending his season in August. The setback halted his pursuit of another Barcelona title, a tournament where he holds a record 12 wins, and weakened his world No. 1 lead, underscoring the ATP Masters shift toward younger players.

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Sinner Faces Pressure

Carlos Alcaraz withdrew with a wrist injury, leaving Jannik Sinner facing expectations in Italy.
Former British No 1 Greg Rusedski said Alcaraz’s absence will put a new wave of pressure on Sinner.
Rusedski predicted Sinner will win the French Open, Madrid Open and Italian Open.
He said a clean-sweep would be historic, potentially giving Sinner all nine Masters titles and all four Grand Slams at age, benefiting men’s tennis.

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