Defending champion Carlos Alcaraz has announced that he will not take part in next month’s French Open after doctors discovered a wrist problem that requires careful management. The world No.
2 made the decision public on Friday via a social‑media post, explaining that after the results of the medical examinations performed that day, the safest course of action is to sit out both the Rome Masters and Roland Garros while his condition is monitored and a recovery plan is established. Alcaraz’s statement read: "Following the outcomes of today’s tests, we have concluded that the most prudent approach is to exercise caution and refrain from competing in Rome and Roland Garros, pending further assessment of the injury’s progression and a decision on when I can safely return to the court." This announcement means that the seven‑time Grand Slam winner will be unable to defend the title he captured in a dramatic fashion last year, when he edged out Jannik Sinner in a five‑set marathon that lasted five hours and 29 minutes. The 2024 French Open final was a historic encounter, with Alcaraz saving three championship points before ultimately prevailing 4‑6, 6‑7 (4‑7), 6‑4, 7‑6 (7‑3), 7‑6 (10‑2). The match is widely regarded as one of the greatest finals in tennis history and cemented Alcaraz’s reputation as a clutch performer on clay.
After that triumph, he continued his dominance by recapturing the world No. 1 ranking, a position he reclaimed by winning the US Open for the second time in 2025. Earlier in the season, his maiden Australian Open victory made him the youngest player ever to complete a career Grand Slam at 22 years and 258 days.
However, the momentum was disrupted when Sinner reclaimed the top spot after defeating Alcaraz in the Monte Carlo Masters final just two days before the Spaniard underwent wrist treatment following his opening‑round win over Otto Virtanen at the Barcelona Open. The wrist issue persisted, and despite Alcaraz’s optimism earlier in the week – he told reporters at the Laureus Awards, where he was named Sportsman of the Year, that he was hopeful of playing in Paris – the subsequent medical evaluation forced him to withdraw not only from Roland Garros but also from the Madrid Open and the upcoming Rome Masters.
"We'll see," Alcaraz said at the awards ceremony. "The next medical test will be crucial." Unfortunately, the follow‑up scans confirmed that playing would pose too great a risk, and the decision to sit out the second Grand Slam of the year was confirmed. Alcaraz’s absence opens a clear path for Jannik Sinner to pursue a career Grand Slam of his own.
Sinner, who already holds Australian Open titles from 2023 and 2024, a Wimbledon crown from 2023, and the 2024 US Open, now has the opportunity to add the French Open to his collection. He learned of Alcaraz’s withdrawal during a post‑match interview after beating Benjamin Bonzi in the second round of the Madrid Open, expressing his disappointment for the sport: "It’s sad for tennis.
As a competitor, I always want to face the best in the world, and he is definitely the best on this surface. I wish him a speedy recovery." Commentators have also weighed in on the significance of the injury.
Naomi Broady of Sky Sports Tennis said, "You have to feel for him. This is one of his first major, impactful injuries.
First we felt sorry for him missing Madrid, the biggest tournament in his home country, and now Rome and Roland Garros are also out. It shows how serious the injury is, forcing him to miss a Grand Slam. It’s a huge missed opportunity for him and gives Sinner a chance to pull away as world No.
1." The withdrawal has broader implications for the tennis calendar. Alcaraz’s dominance on all surfaces over the past two years has been a defining storyline, and his absence will likely shift the dynamics of the clay season, giving other contenders a better chance to make deep runs.
The French Open, traditionally a showcase of endurance and tactical mastery on clay, will now feature a field without its reigning champion, potentially altering the competitive balance and opening up new narratives for emerging players. From a fan perspective, the news is a disappointment, especially after the excitement generated by Alcaraz’s dramatic 2024 final. Yet it also underscores the physical demands of modern tennis, where athletes compete at a relentless pace across multiple continents, often with limited recovery time.
Wrist injuries are particularly problematic for players who rely on heavy topspin and aggressive baseline play, as they can affect both serve potency and groundstroke consistency. Looking ahead, Alcaraz will focus on rehabilitation, likely working with physiotherapists and medical staff to strengthen the wrist and prevent recurrence. He has previously spoken about the importance of listening to his body and taking a measured approach to training, which should aid his long‑term health and career longevity. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely for updates on his recovery timeline, hoping he can return to the tour in full form for the summer hard‑court swing.
In the meantime, the tennis world will turn its attention to the upcoming events in Rome and Paris, where players such as Sinner, Novak Djokovic, and rising stars will vie for the prestigious Roland Garros title. The tournament promises to deliver high‑quality matches, and the absence of Alcaraz adds an element of unpredictability that could make the competition even more compelling.
For those following the story, Sky Sports will continue to provide live coverage, highlights, and expert analysis across its platforms, including the Sky Sports app and NOW streaming service. Viewers can stay updated on match scores, player interviews, and the latest developments regarding Alcaraz’s injury and return prospects.