Nadal and Djokovic Engage in Star-Studded Match, Alcaraz Misses Roland Garros
Carlos Alcaraz, the world No. 2 and two-time reigning French Open champion, has officially withdrawn from this year's tournament at Roland Garros. The decision, announced on Friday, stems from a persistent right wrist injury. This marks a significant absence for the Spaniard, who had been a favourite to secure his third consecutive title in Paris. The withdrawal also means Alcaraz will miss the preceding Italian Open, another tournament he won last year.
The injury first surfaced during Alcaraz's first-round match at the Barcelona Open on April 14, where he received treatment on his right wrist and forearm. Subsequent medical tests have confirmed the severity of the issue, forcing the hand of Alcaraz and his team. He had already withdrawn from the Barcelona Open and subsequently the Madrid Open due to the ailment.
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Implications for the Grand Slam Race
Alcaraz's absence creates a notable void at the French Open, particularly for his main rival, Jannik Sinner. Sinner, who recently leapfrogged Alcaraz to claim the world No. 1 ranking after defeating him in the Monte Carlo Masters final, now has an unobstructed path to potentially win his first French Open and complete a career Grand Slam. Sinner, the Australian Open and Wimbledon champion, is the only major missing from his collection.
The 22-year-old Alcaraz, who became the youngest man to achieve a career Grand Slam in January with his Australian Open victory, has been a dominant force in recent years. He secured seven Grand Slam titles prior to this setback. His previous French Open final, a five-set epic where he saved three match points against Sinner, is still fresh in memory.
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A Look Back at Alcaraz's Recent Form
The clay-court season had already presented challenges for Alcaraz. After his loss to Sinner in Monte Carlo, he proceeded to the Barcelona Open, where the injury ultimately took hold. Reports indicate that Alcaraz was seen wearing a brace on his right wrist at the 2026 Laureus Awards this week.
The financial implications for players losing in the first round of the French Open are also noted, with an increase from €78,000 to €87,000 this year. Meanwhile, in Alcaraz's absence from Barcelona, Frenchman Arthur Fils claimed the title.
