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Carlos Alcaraz and Novak Djokovic have both withdrawn from the Mutua Madrid Open due to ongoing injury issues.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, ranked second in the world, is still recovering from a wrist injury, while Djokovic is dealing with a persistent shoulder problem. The Spanish player was forced to pull out of the Barcelona tournament after receiving medical attention during his first-round victory. He expressed his disappointment on social media, stating that missing the Madrid Open 'hurts so much' as it is one of the most significant events on his calendar. Djokovic, a 24-time Grand Slam champion, also announced his withdrawal from the Madrid Open, citing his ongoing recovery. Other players, including Taylor Fritz and Britain's Jacob Fearnley, have also pulled out of the tournament. The draw for the Madrid Open is set to take place on Monday. Meanwhile, Rafael Jodar has reached the semi-finals of the Barcelona Open, becoming the fifth Spanish teenager to achieve this feat in the Open Era. He will face Arthur Fils in the semi-finals on Saturday.