Carlos Alcaraz and Novak Djokovic have both been forced to pull out of 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 that has hindered his ability to compete. The news is particularly disappointing for Alcaraz, as the Madrid Open is a significant tournament in his home country, and he will now miss it for the second consecutive year.
In a social media post, Alcaraz expressed his sadness, stating that not being able to play in front of his home crowd is especially tough for him. Djokovic, a three-time champion at the Madrid Open, also announced his withdrawal on social media, citing his need to continue his recovery in order to return to competition soon. Other players who have withdrawn from the tournament include Taylor Fritz, Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard, and Britain's Jacob Fearnley. The draw for the Madrid Open is set to take place on Monday, and the tournament will be live on Sky Sports Tennis starting April 21.
The absence of Alcaraz and Djokovic from the Madrid Open could have implications for the rankings, with Jannik Sinner likely to become the top seed at the French Open and potentially holding the number one spot until the end of Wimbledon.