The tennis world has been dealt a significant blow as both Carlos Alcaraz and Novak Djokovic have been forced to pull out of the Mutua Madrid Open due to lingering injuries. Alcaraz, currently ranked second in the world, is still recovering from a wrist injury that has been plaguing him, while Djokovic is dealing with a persistent shoulder issue that has kept him sidelined from recent events in Miami and Monte Carlo. The Spaniard's injury has been particularly troublesome, as he was forced to withdraw from the Barcelona tournament after receiving medical attention during his first-round victory.
In a heartfelt message on social media, Alcaraz expressed his disappointment at missing the Madrid Open, stating that it 'hurts so much not to be able to play' in his home country. With Alcaraz's withdrawal, Jannik Sinner is poised to become the top seed at the French Open and potentially claim the world No 1 spot until the end of Wimbledon.
Meanwhile, Djokovic announced his withdrawal from the Madrid Open on social media, citing his ongoing recovery and stating that he is 'continuing my recovery in order to be back soon.' The 38-year-old Serb is eyeing a record 25th Grand Slam title at the French Open, which is set to begin on May 24. Other notable withdrawals from the Madrid Open include Taylor Fritz, Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard, and Britain's Jacob Fearnley.
The draw for the tournament is scheduled for Monday, and fans can catch all the action live on Sky Sports Tennis.