World-class tennis player Carlos Alcaraz has pulled out of the Barcelona Open due to a wrist injury. Alcaraz won his first match but struggled with wrist pain and was set to face Tomas Machac. Despite needing to win the tournament to reclaim his world No 1 ranking, Alcaraz decided to withdraw after a medical examination revealed the injury was more severe than initially thought.
The Spaniard expressed disappointment, stating he must prioritize his health and recovery. Alcaraz's withdrawal comes after a grueling schedule, having returned to competition just 48 hours after losing the Monte-Carlo Masters final. British No 1 Cameron Norrie advanced to the quarter-finals, while Katie Boulter and Iga Swiatek also progressed in their respective tournaments. Novak Djokovic announced his return to action at the Mutua Madrid Open, and the tennis world awaits Alcaraz's recovery as he prepares to defend his French Open title.