Injury Forces Alcaraz and Djokovic to Withdraw from Madrid Open

Carlos Alcaraz and Novak Djokovic have both withdrawn from the Mutua Madrid Open due to ongoing injury issues. Alcaraz, currently ranked second in the world, is still recovering from a wrist injury, while Djokovic is dealing with a persistent shoulder problem. The news comes as a significant blow to the tournament, with Alcaraz being forced to miss the biggest event in his home country for the second consecutive year. In a statement on social media, Alcaraz expressed his disappointment, stating that 'Madrid is home, one of the most special places on my calendar, and that's why it hurts so much not to be able to play here.' Meanwhile, Djokovic announced his withdrawal on Instagram, citing his ongoing recovery and a desire to return to competition soon. The withdrawals have significant implications for the tournament, with Jannik Sinner likely to become the top seed at the French Open and potentially claiming the world No 1 spot until the end of Wimbledon. Other players, including Taylor Fritz, Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard, and Britain's Jacob Fearnley, have also withdrawn from the Madrid Open, which is set to begin on April 21.